The family of Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac, the 28-year-old Nigerian Army officer who lost his life during the operation that rescued abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, has spoken publicly about its grief, describing the late officer as “the hope of the family” while urging the military and government to honour his sacrifice and support those he left behind.

Days after Nigeria celebrated the successful rescue of dozens of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, the family of the young officer who died during the operation says it is still struggling to come to terms with an irreplaceable loss.

Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac’s father described his son as the family’s greatest hope, saying the painful reality of his death continues to weigh heavily on relatives and members of their community.

Speaking from the family’s residence in Yola, Adamawa State, retired Master Warrant Officer Isaac Alabura said the 28-year-old officer had a promising military career ahead of him before his life was cut short during the rescue mission.

According to him, the family had expected Felix to rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Army and become a source of pride for both the family and the wider community.

He also appealed to the Nigerian Army and the Oyo State Government to provide support for the family and ensure the officer’s sacrifice is not forgotten.

The late officer was among troops deployed for the intelligence-led operation that secured the freedom of abducted pupils and teachers who had spent 56 days in captivity after being kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Reports indicate that Lieutenant Isaac was killed during the early phase of the operation after his team encountered explosives while advancing toward the kidnappers’ hideout. Despite the setback, security forces continued the mission and successfully rescued the victims.

Family members and close associates have urged the Federal Government and military authorities to immortalise the fallen officer in recognition of what they described as the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.

His cousin, Tidwawa Nelson Eweh, said Nigeria had lost a disciplined and dedicated young officer whose commitment to protecting lives should be remembered by future generations.

Lieutenant Felix Ademe Isaac was buried with full military honours in Yola, Adamawa State, on the same day the rescued pupils and teachers regained their freedom. While the successful operation has been widely celebrated, his family says true honour will come only when his sacrifice is permanently recognised and the loved ones he left behind receive meaningful support.