Dear football,
Today, I want to share with you that this season will be my last as a professional footballer. After so many years living my dream, I feel it’s time to start a new chapter in my life.
Being honest, even though I have been preparing myself for this moment, I found it hard to write this letter. After 20 seasons , many people have played an important role in my career.
When I first kicked a ball as a child in Pamplona with my schoolmates, I never imagined the amazing journey ahead. I’m grateful for every moment: the wins, the tough losses, the challenges, and most of all, the people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve made along the way.
To my teammates, coaches, and every staff member at all the clubs I’ve been lucky to be part of, thank you for helping me grow as a person and a player every day. Wearing the shirts of CA Osasuna, Olympique Marseille, Chelsea FC, Atlético de Madrid, Sevilla FC, and representing my country at the biggest stages has been a true privilege. Every moment has meant so much to me…
Rest On, Brave Comrades
THEATRE COMMANDER OPHK PAYS TRIBUTE TO FALLEN HEROES, VOWS THEIR SACRIFICE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
The quiet grounds of the cemetery at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery became a place of deep sorrow and honour on Friday as gallant officers and soldiers who paid the ultimate price in defence of Nigeria were laid to rest.
Leading the solemn ceremony was the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, who paid heartfelt tribute to the brave men who gave their lives in the line of duty.
Standing before grieving families, fellow soldiers and senior officers, the Theatre Commander described the moment as a painful reminder of the true cost of defending a nation.
“In the profession of arms, we celebrate victories that make us proud. But today reminds us of the heavy price some must pay for those victories. These brave men gave everything so that others may live in peace.”
The fallen troops were remembered as courageous patriots who showed unwavering loyalty, selflessness and dedication to Nigeria. According to the Theatre Commander, their deaths are not only a loss to their families, but also to the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces and the entire nation they died protecting.
He emphasized that these heroes fought with honour and upheld the finest traditions of the Nigerian military.
“They endured hardship and danger so that our flag would continue to fly high. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom is never free — it is secured by men and women who place duty above self.”
Major General Abubakar assured the grieving families that the sacrifices of their loved ones would never be forgotten and that all benefits and entitlements due to the fallen soldiers would be processed without delay to support their families.
On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, he extended deep condolences to the families of the fallen heroes.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by Alhaji Mustapha Ali Yabe, expressed profound sympathy to the Armed Forces and the families of the deceased soldiers.
He described their deaths as a painful loss not only to the military but to the entire nation, praising their courage and unwavering commitment to protecting the people of Borno State.
The Borno State Government also reassured the military that it would continue to support the Armed Forces and stand by the families of the fallen heroes.
The emotional ceremony was attended by senior military officers from the Theatre Command Headquarters and the 7 Division Nigerian Army, government officials, the Chairman of Damboa Local Government Area, and the families and loved ones left behind by the brave soldiers.
As the final prayers were said and the graves were closed, one message echoed through the silent air:
Nigeria will never forget her fallen heroes.
Rest on, brave warriors. Your sacrifice will forever live in our hearts.