One of Nigeria’s brightest soldiers, Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile has received an uncommon hero’s farewell from the who-is-who of Nigeria.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief of Air Staff, Nigeria’s Senate have either sent representatives, paid glowing tributes or personally joined mourners at the military cemetery to bid her farewell.
While wishing that Tolulope’s soul rests in peace, Goodluck Jonathan, in his tribute described her as a Nigerian girl hero who broke the glass ceiling as a brave patriot for the love of fatherland.
In his farewell tribute, Jonathan extolled her uncommon bravery and determination. According to him,
“In 2011 when my administration introduced females into the Nigeria Defence Academy to train as combatants, for the first time, it was to give equal opportunity to all men and women of the armed forces and encourage highly driven female officers like Tolulope to excel in her chosen career, irrespective of their gender.
“I feel sad that such a young gallant officer would die at the prime of her life. I am however, encouraged by the fact that she stood out as a pleasant fulfilment of our dream of an al-embracing Nigeria armed forces devoid of discrimination.
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“By dedicating her young life to protect and defend Nigeria’s strength, honour and unity, her memory and legacy will continue to serve as a great inspiration to our youth especially our girls.”
The senate today, observed a minute silence in honour of the young officer. They also expressed their condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the people of Kogi State.
A motion was raised by Senator in charge of Kogi West Senatorial District, Smart Adeyemi that a monument be erected in her honour. Unfortunately, the motion did not get the approval of the upper legislative chamber.