The Bring Back Our Girls group on Saturday commended men of the Nigerian army over the fight against insurgency in the North-eastern part of the country.

In a statement signed by its leaders, Aisha Yesufu and Oby Ezekwesili the group appreciated the Civilian JTF for its contribution to the fight against the Boko Haram sect.

“We must as always, however, first acknowledge the courage and gallantry of our soldiers in the frontlines, the Multinational Joint Task Force, and the Civilian JTF, and urge them to remain resilient in the face of attacks as these. Their labour and sacrifice shall never be in vain.

“We acknowledge the return of thousands of our fellow citizens who were never confirmed by the federal government to be missing but have since been rescued by our military,” it said.

The group called on the federal government to pay the troops who are reported to have complained about their salaries, stating it could weaken their morale.

“However, reports regrettably show our troops at the frontlines complained about their salaries and emoluments. This they say is weakening their morale in the fight against insurgency as the food they are fed, is in no way better than that served prisoners. This is unacceptable and we call for an investigation.

“At this time of immense sacrifice from our troops on the frontline, it is important to prioritise their welfare and needs, ensuring that they have no cause to complain or worry about basic needs as they serve their nation to root out the insurgents,” it said.

Azeez