NIGERIA, Dec. 1 -- Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Attah said the recognition was not his alone but belonged to "all officers and men, military and paramilitary, who paid the supreme price for our dear nation."

He described the fallen heroes as patriots whose sacrifices must never be forgotten.

Attah used the occasion to urge Nigerians across all backgrounds to support the Federal Government's ongoing security efforts, stressing that the country's challenges require collective responsibility.

According to him, national progress depends heavily on citizens' willingness to stand together in difficult times.

He cautioned against allowing sentiment to shape public debate, noting that emotional reactions may yield "temporary ga...