To The Real Heroes Of 2016

For the past fifty-two weeks they have been away from family and friends

for the past twelve months they have been manning check points and patrolling street ends

for every day you have enjoyed the split unit of your home, they have been under the burning sun, keeping the enemies away

for every night you have savored the warmth of your bed, they have laid in the freezing trenches providing you solace

for every moment you have hugged a friend, kissed a loved one, grabbed a beer, dribbled a ball, they have been holding on to their rifles and their breath, defending all.

''Arise O'come patriot'' and they rose to answered the call, in distant land and at home

wearing the identity of our country, serving our father land with love and strength and faith

they are flesh and blood whose love for their country has, to the hopeless, restored hope and strengthen the spine of the weak

it is for the love of our country that they have left family and comfort to go into the desert field.

it is for the love of our country and not the hate of the enemy that they have put on their boots of courage and helmet of bravery

matching onwards to enclaves of the enemy and displaying gallantry

they stand between the peace and happiness that there is and the sorrow and affliction that could become

they have felt all emotions, from the pain of leaving loved ones behind to the joy of returning to a warm hug after an accomplished task

from the anguish of losing a battle to the euphoria of winning a war

it is to preserve our sovereignty that they have sacrificed their today, tomorrow and their eternity.

To The Nigerian Army, Air Force, Navy, Police Force, Civil Defense, Civilian JTF and all those who have kept us safe for this past year!