30 April 2009 -- UNAMID peacekeepers today gathered together for a memorial parade in honor of one of their colleagues, Major Bala Etsu, who died on 27 April 2009, following a brief illness. The Officer before his death was a Staff Officer serving in the Force Headquarters. He is survived by a wife and children.

On behalf of the Joint Special Representative, UNAMID Force Commander General Martin Luther Agwai paid tribute to the late officer stating that his untimely death was no doubt a terrible shock not only to his immediate family, to the Nigerian contingent but also to the entire UNAMID family. “We are indeed saddened by his departure; however we are consoled in the fact that he dedicated his life to the service of humanity and in fact died in the course of it.”

On behalf of the Mission, wish to commensurate with the government of Nigeria on this sad occasion and express our gratitude for the privilege of having Major Bala Etsu to serve with UNAMID. Our hearts remain with the family of the deceased Officer.

The Force Chief Operations Officer, Col. Akintola, described the officer as a hard working and diligent officer who never shirked his responsibilities. “We salute the memory, courage, commitment to duty and indeed your loyalty to the peace mission in Darfur,” he added.

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