Sokoto gov’s aide receives military course mates’ award

The Sokoto State Governor’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Abdul Usman (retd.), has been honoured with the prestigious “Golden Heart” Award by his former course mates for his contributions to the welfare and unity of members of Direct Regular Course 10 Nigerian Army and Direct Regular Course 11 Nigerian Air Force.

Usman, also known as Sadaukin Gwadabawa, received the award during the association’s 2026 reunion held on Saturday at the 65 Battalion Mess, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The members, who enlisted into the Nigerian Army in 2000, said they seized the reunion occasion to celebrate over two decades of friendship, camaraderie and service to the country.

While receiving the award, Usman expressed appreciation to the President of the Association, Brig. Gen. Showunmi Solomon (retd.), and other members for the recognition.

He described the honour as a source of encouragement and prayed for continued unity and welfare among members.

He said, “I appreciate the President of the Association and all members of DRC 10 NA/11 NAF for this recognition.

“This award is a source of encouragement to me. I pray Almighty Allah gives us the strength to continue supporting one another and protects us as we return to our various destinations.”

In his address, the association’s president, Showunmi, recalled that the initiative to bring members together started in 2015 through a WhatsApp platform before evolving into a structured association with elected officials and guiding rules.

He said the first physical reunion was held in 2021 at the 65 Battalion Mess, followed by subsequent meetings at Eko Hotels and Suites and the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Abuja.

The president said the welfare of members remained one of the major objectives of the association, urging members to develop stronger systems that would improve their economic wellbeing.

He said, “As many of us approach retirement, we need to build stronger welfare systems that will promote economic independence through collaboration and wealth-creation initiatives.”

Showunmi also urged members to remain committed to contributing to their communities and national development, particularly as they transition into senior citizenship.

The reunion also provided an opportunity for members to reflect on the history, achievements and future direction of the association, with emphasis on strengthening friendship and improving members’ welfare.

The event ended with a minute’s silence in honour of deceased members, followed by prayers for the repose of their souls and for their bereaved families.