Nigerians who fought in World War II

BBC has a report on the West African soldiers who fought with the British forces in Burma during the second world war:

Nigerians made up more than half of the total force of 90,000 West African soldiers deployed to South East Asia after 1943 as part of the British Army’s 81st and 82nd (West Africa) Divisions.

And:

Although they were paid off for their service, some claim they were promised allowances which were never paid, despite their repeated efforts over the years.

And it is not only the money – some veterans are still bitter over what they see as a lack of recognition.

“We were supposed to get Long Service and British Empire Medals” says Dangombe.

“But up until now – nothing.”.

See the whole story here.

Also check out Biyi Bandele’s novel, Burma Boy, a novel about a Nigerian who fought in Burma during the war. Here is a review of the book.