Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai could not hold back his tears on Monday during the national burial of Lt. Col. Muhammed Abu Ali and six other fallen soldiers in Abuja.

Buratai wept as he read the funeral oration at the graveside of the fallen heroes.

Abu Ali, alongside 6 other soldiers were killed in an attack by Boko Haram in Mallam Fatori, Borno State on Friday.

The other six soldiers were Muazu Ibrahim, Hussani Jafaru, Bassey Okon, Chukwu Simon and Patrick Paul.

“They were brave, precise, professional and inspiring. They led the battle to recapture the following towns: Monguno, Baga, new Marte, Bama, Gwoza, Banki Junction, Gamboru-Ngala, Yale, Yanteke, Bita, Deruwa, Daira Kangaruwa and Mallam Fatori,” Buratai said.

“In these battles, they rescued children and women, fathers and mothers, the young and the old and restored peace and hope to Nigerian citizens.

“At last, on Nov. 4, they paid the supreme sacrifice in the battle of Mallam Fatori.”

Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari who represented President Muhammadu Buhari said the deceased were dedicated to their duties.

“They were fearless, responsive, inspiring, selfless and dedicated to their duties,” he said.

“The selflessness of these gentlemen reinvigorate the memories of other great fallen heroes, who stood firm in the defence of our dear nation.”