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Remembrance: Govs Mbah, Soludo, Diri, Sanwo-Olu , others extol gallantry, sacrifices of Nigerian Armed Forces

.As Fubara promises better welfare Rivers legionnaires, donates N50m to widows of fallen heroes
.Soludo pledges stronger security measures in Anambra, says “conspiracy of silence” fuels crime
.Uzodimma pleads with private school owners to award scholarships to fallen heroes’ wards
 .Nigeria still haunted by brutal murder of Sir Ahmadu Bello, others in 1966 — Shehu Sani
Ibrahim Quadri, Lagos, Cosmas Chukwu, Enugu, Elizabeth Vincent,Yenagoa, Daniel Dauda, Jos, Damisi Ojo, Akure and Emmanuel Nlewedum, Port Harcourt 
As Nigeria commemorated 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day on Wednesday, Governors of Enugu, Anambra,  Lagos, Bayelsa,  Rivers , Imo and Plateau States have hailed the fallen heroes, pledging more supports for widows and other families members left behind.
In similar vein, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his counterpart from Rivers State, Sim Fubara granted donations to the widows of the fallen heroes.
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has extolled the bravery and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces and veterans, saying that the nation owed them eternal gratitude.
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other state officials on Wednesday laid wreaths in honour of fallen heroes, noting the government would continue to support their families.
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has called for concerted effort to build a Nigeria that embodied justice, equity and peace and that was deserving of the sacrifices of the nation’s fallen heroes.
In Lagos, the Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stated this at the parade & laying of wreaths ceremony to commemorate 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at TBS Square Arcade, Lagos.
Aside laying of wreaths, the ceremony also witnessed parade by Nigerian aremed forces, releasing of pigeons from cage signifying freedom and 21 gun salutes.
Shortly after the ceremony, Hamzat representing his principal stated that the day’s event signalled the culmination of the launch of the emblem and donation by President Bola Tinubu.
Hamzat said, “Every year we put in the honour of fallen heroes. We all know they sacrificed their lives, so it’s an honour for them and we pray for them. And we also use this time to remember them. This is the culmination of when Mr. President launched this movement.
“And Nigerians should also contribute, because those people left people behind, they are heroes. So in order for us, we should take some of the children and be responsible for some of their things. So it’s not just about this parade, it’s about that process.
“And we just hope that Nigerians will keep it, so that we can always help to sustain our fallen heroes. So that’s basically the essence of this, to remember and to tell them that they cannot be forgotten.”
Hamzat added, “The legions are some of the eligible, they are veterans. And so every year they come, this year about two weeks ago they came to the Secretariat and we do things, we don’t need to meet them publicly. We do things for them, we collaborate throughout the year.
“So to their agencies and then even employment. We see to some of their schools and so on. So there are so many things at home, but of course every year we want to get better by listening to them and sustaining their families.”
In his message, Mbah recognized and appreciated in a special way the role of the Armed Forces in the peace and security that currently prevail in the state.
Governor Mbah spoke during the ceremonies to mark the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in the state capital on Wednesday.
“Our debt of gratitude to you is eternal – not just one felt for a day. For us, this debt of gratitude is not mere lip service. It is a debt we are obligated to repay, because yours have been a career of lifelong service to the nation.
“Yours have been a career dedicated to keeping us safe – sometimes at the risk of your lives. The cenotaphs across the country are stark reminders of the price that our armed forces personnel have been paying, from colonial times to the present day,” he stated.
Mbah also recalled the exploits and sacrifices of the Nigeria Armed Forces in battlefields and peace missions around the world, which he said had earned  the accolades, pride and respect.
“From the jungles of Burma and Congo to the arid fields of South Sudan, and the war-torn streets of Liberia and Sierra Leone, our armed forces have always been an embodiment of valour.
“The brave men and women of our armed forces have literally led the charge, ready and willing to deploy, as evident from their participation in numerous United Nations Missions across the world,” he said.
Mbah called for both material and emotional support to both the families of the veterans and serving personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“Our Armed Forces consist of men and women of steel. But they are humans, after all, and sometimes pay the ultimate price. When such tragedy occurs, they leave behind families for whom the pain of loss is often most severe. We owe them our love and care – in words and in deed.
“The widows and children of our ex-servicemen are compelling reminders of the sacrifices of our fallen heroes. Their lifetime of sacrifice and duty to the country has earned the families they left behind a right to our collective empathy.
“Their sacrifice for you and me – for the entire country – compels  us to not just wipe off their tears, but to ensure that whatever lack their absence had created for their families is substantially filled. That is what gratitude looks like. It is, as well, the greatest honour and respect we can accord our fallen heroes.
“No less deserving of our love, respect and support are members still in active service, and those in retirement.
“On this very somber day of remembrance, I reaffirm my administration’s continued support to the Armed Forces – the pride of our nation, bastion of unity, and potent symbol of our sovereignty. Our support is, of course, complementary to the immense efforts of the Federal Government.
“So, the wreaths we lay in honour of our fallen heroes are not mere gestures meant for TV cameras. They impose on us an obligation to offer a shoulder to their relatives who mourn, and cater to their material needs.
These, we shall never fail to do as a government,” Mbah concluded.
Speaking, Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Enugu State, Barr. Emeka Igweshi, stressed that support for the members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families should not be left to the government alone, but should be embraced  by all.
Highpoints of the event were parade, laying of wreaths to honour the nation’s fallen heroes and release of pigeons to signal lasting peace.
Meanwhile, the event was attended by senior government officials, senior members of the Armed Forces, and other dignitaries, including the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, Igwe Fideli Nwatu and Igwe Greg Ugwu.
Members of the Armed Forces, security and related agencies were led by the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Maj. Gen. Hassan Dada; Garrison Commander, 82 Division, Brig. Gen. Stephen Dogo; Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Ground Training Command, Enugu, Air Vice Marshal Umar Abubakar; Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Madueke, Adani, Enugu, Commodore A.O Odejobi; Commissioner of Police, Enugu State, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu; State Director, Depart of State Services, represented by a Deputy Director, Operations, Abisong Eteng; State Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Willy Etim Elijah; Controller of Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu State, Nicholas Obiako and the Enugu Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission, Franklin Agbakoba Onyekwelu.
Governor Diri stated this on Wednesday at this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the Peace Park in Yenagoa, the state capital.
Paying tribute to the nation’s slain heroes, he stressed the need to move beyond ceremonial gestures and ensure that the sacrifices of the heroes were reflected in the progress and betterment of society.
The Bayelsa governor said as Nigerians gather annually to honour the memory of former and late soldiers, he was concerned about the paradox that underscored their ultimate sacrifice because they paid the supreme price so that others might live.
He stated: “The legacy of our heroes calls for a Nigeria where justice, equity, and prosperity are tangible realities for all citizens. It is about ensuring that policies and actions bring about meaningful and positive outcomes, addressing the needs of all Nigerians, and working towards the common good.
“Every decision, no matter how big or small, should be made with the aim of fostering unity, justice, peace, promoting development, and enhancing the welfare of every individual in our nation.”
 According to Diri, “the cruel irony of war is that those who fought to bring us peace often did so at the cost of their own lives. The bravery and selflessness displayed by these remarkable individuals have inspired generations of Nigerians, and their legacy continues to shape the chapters of our nation’s history.
 “We remember their sacrifices, their arduous struggles, and their ultimate giving as we honour their memory of striving to create a better Nigeria for every citizen.”
To families of the fallen heroes, the governor pledged his administration’s support to them, stating that their sacrifices were a shared burden.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their role in ensuring that the state remained peaceful and secure, adding that the government would continue to provide essential support to enable them perform their duties efficiently.
“The maintenance of law and order remains a priority for our administration, as it provides the foundation upon which we are constructing a prosperous and thriving society, one conducive for economic growth, social development, and individual wellbeing, ultimately leading to the attainment of our vision for a more prosperous Bayelsa.”
Highpoint of the ceremony was the laying of wreaths at the tomb of the unknown soldier by Governor Douye Diri, his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Chief Judge, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, chairman of the state traditional rulers council, King Bubaraye Dakolo,  represented by his vice, King Charles Owaba, service commanders and widow of a fallen hero, Mrs Esther Femowei.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has challenged Nigerians to always compliment the efforts of the men and officers of the Nigeria Armed Forces who were at the battle front for global peace and national integration.
Governor Mutfwang reiterates his administration’s continued commitment and devotion of time and resources towards enhancing the welfare of the families of the fallen heroes.
He made this known Wednesday after laying of wreaths ceremony to climax 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at Joseph Gomwalk State Secretariat Jos.
The annual epoch making Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration also heralded with parade by the Nigerian armed forces, releasing of pigeons from cage signifying Freedom and peace, and 21 gun salutes.
Governor Mutfwang said the Armed Forces have become a very important institution in modern times because we live in an era of conflict and insecurity. Therefore, we need them to continue playing the patriotic role they are assigned.
“I want to salute the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their gallantry in securing our nation, both internally and externally. Of course, we must also remember those who have served and retired, as well as those who have passed away.
“As a nation, we must pay our respects to those who served this nation meritoriously. We must find ways to care for them in their old age. Armed Forces Remembrance Day provides a platform and an opportunity to remember these individuals. It reminds us to care for the families of those who have died, as well as those who have retired and are facing challenges in life.
“We, as Africans and Nigerians, have a deep sense of community, and we must continue to support them. As a government, we will keep looking for ways to improve their living conditions.
“One of the things we accomplished this year was approving free transportation for the elderly aged 70 and above. We are also exploring other means to ensure their needs are met”, Governor Mutfwang promised.
Chairman of Nigeria Legion Council, Plateau State  chapter, Col. Sati Yilwat retired while commending Governor Mutfwang’s kind gesture, appeal for government intervention at all levels to improve the living condition of retired Army and families of fallen heroes.
Meanwhile, in commemoration of the 2025 armed forces remembrance day and as part of his commitment to empower families of the fallen heroes, the governor of Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted an interest-free loan of thirty-five million naira to the widows of fallen heroes in the state.
Speaking during the armed forces remembrance day celebration in Akure, on Wednesday, the governor who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, said the gesture was a way of supporting the families of the fallen heroes to be self-reliant.
He said, “The Micro-Credit Loan Scheme to the widows of the departed heroes, which is at zero interest rate, remains a unique programme that will be sustained irrespective of the economic situation
“The sum of N35million only has been approved this year to accommodate more than the number that were considered last year. While assuring you that we shall continue to make the loan more accessible, we are equally appealing to the beneficiaries to join hands with the government to make the programme sustainable by making repayment of the loan their top priorities”.
The governor assured the security agencies that his administration will continue to make the loan disbursement as a component of the armed forces remembrance day every year.
“As a mark of our continual support to the widows and dependents of the fallen heroes, we have made the disbursement of interest-free loans to be part of the annual celebration in Ondo state and same will be replicated this year.
“For beneficiaries that are able to fully repay the loan before the next celebration, the loan shall not be a yearly affair for them, rather they will have the opportunity to access even higher amount immediately they are able to defray whatever amount that is advanced to them”, the governor reiterated.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has promised better welfare packages for legionnaires in the state.
Governor Fubara who made the promise at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration at the Isaac Boro Park on Wednesday, reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving their living conditions and prioritize their inclusion in state social welfare programs.
The Governor also donated N50 million to widows of fallen heroes in the state to enable them scale up their economic activities, pay rents and solve other problems of their families.
The governor lauded the courage of Nigeria’s armed forces, recognizing their role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and stability amid numerous security challenges. “Without the heroism of these gallant servicemen and women, this nation would not be what it is today,” he noted.
Governor Fubara used the medium to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in modernizing and prioritizing the welfare of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He assured President Tinubu of his administration continuous support and loyalty while collaborating with the Federal Government in achieving better and improved welfare for men and officers of the nation’s security agencies.
He noted that while Nigeria has endured the trials of civil war, it has continued to tackle the internal threats from terrorism and armed insurgency, saying, “Through it all, our Armed Forces have stood resolute defending us, keeping peace, upholding our nation’s integrity, and ensuring the survival of our beloved country.
“Even as we speak, our servicemen and women remain on the frontlines, courageously combating insurgencies and other threats to our security. Today, we gather to reflect on and celebrate the bravery of our veterans, whose dedication has safeguarded our nation’s territorial integrity and preserved its sovereignty.”
He said that without the heroism of these gallant servicemen and women, Nigeria would not be what it is today, either would the people enjoy the prevailing freedoms and peace that are often taken for granted.
The Governor also pointed to the robust government-security agencies’ collaboration that has greatly helped in achieving the reassuring peace and stability enjoyed in the State, describing such feat to divine help.
He emphasised the role every Nigerian must play in achieving enduring peace and security as they continue to support the Armed Forces and security agencies in overcoming security challenges that confront the country.
He said: “Rivers State has enjoyed significant peace and stability under this administration, a testament to the collaboration between the government and security agencies, as well as the grace of God.
“We remain vigilant and steadfast in preserving this peace and will continue to provide the necessary support to security formations in the State to ensure they can effectively discharge their duties.
“I call on every citizen to rally around our Armed Forces and work together to strengthen our national unity. We must ensure that every section of our country feels included and valued, fostering a stronger and more cohesive Nigeria.”
In his speech, the Acting Chairman of Nigeria Legion, Rivers State Chapter, ACC Kuu Aminkipo Promise, expressed appreciation to Governor Fubara for his immeasurable financial support to members of the legion, which has sustained their livelihoods and kept their wards in school.
He also appealed the governor to consider building a permanent office for the Nigerian Legion within the Isaac Boro Park Military Cenotaph to serve as a fitting tribute to the fallen heroes annually honoured at the site.
The event closed with prayers for the families of the fallen heroes and a collective resolve to foster national unity and peace.
Also, Governor of Anambra. Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo paid a glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka. He lauded their sacrifices for freedom and pledged unwavering support for security forces in Anambra.
Governor Soludo also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces and local vigilantes for combating terrorism and restoring peace in troubled areas like Orumba South and North. He condemned the criminal activities that led to the deaths of many security personnel and called for collective action against crime.
Announcing the launch of Operation Udo Ga Achi (Peace Will Reign) and putting in place stringent Homeland Laws to prosecute criminals effectively, Soludo emphasized the need for intelligence-sharing to tackle organized crime. He decried that kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative business that must be tackled headlong
To the military and other paramilitary agencies, Governor Soludo reiterated that “Anambra is grateful, appreciative, and will not forget,” while also pledging continued support for the security forces.
The event featured a parade, wreath-laying, and dove release, symbolizing peace. The Governor further urged citizens to make security a shared responsibility, adding, “The safety of lives and property is everyone’s duty.”
The occasion was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt Hon  Somtochukwu Udeze,  members of the Judiciary, Service Commanders, traditional rulers, Veterans among others.
On his part, the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma has appealed to the civil populace, especially private school proprietors, to assist the children of deceased soldiers by awarding scholarships to them as a way to cushion the effects of the loss of their bread-winners.
The Governor made the request on Wednesday in his remarks at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, New Owerri, Imo State.
He said, “beyond the annual observance there is need to focus on the significance of the fallen heroes who scarified and laid down their lives for others for the peace and continued existence of our country, Nigeria as one entity,” noting that “the sacrifice is the highest form of patriotism for which we can never repay them enough.”
“Patriotism is the love of one’s country. These Nigerians we are remembering today love Nigeria unto death,” he added and asserted that “we have various contributions to make to demonstrate our love for Nigeria.”
Uzodimma said: “Nigerians need to do all within their powers to support the families of the departed gallant soldiers. The support could be physical, through monetary assistance; emotional, through kind words of consolations and encouragement, hence the need to be with them, to reassure them that their husbands and fathers did not die in vain.”
He saluted Faith-based organisations and other Non Governmental Organisations who have been faithful in offering support, assistance and succour to the families of the departed soldiers and appealed that they should not limit their assistance to the Armed Forces Remembrance Day only, “but rather extend help whenever we have the resources.”
Uzodimma said that such selfless responsibilities are always rewarded by  God who sees in the secret.
On the side of his administration, Uzodimma assured of continuing assistance to both the families of the departed and serving personnel, saying that “Imo people owe the security agencies immense gratitude for helping us to battle insecurity.”
He regretted that some of them have died in the course of maintaining peace in the State, and assured that his government will continue to honour the memories of such heroes.
Again, he appealed to Imo people not to hesitate in volunteering helpful information to the security agencies in the fight against insecurity,  using the occasion to remind those who have been stoking the fires of insecurity in the State, and indeed, Nigeria, to see the solemn event of Armed forces Remembrance Day as a sober opportunity to reflect on the consequences of war and violence as an ill-wind that blows no one any good.
“They should repent and turn a new leaf for peace to reign in our land.”
Uzodimma used the occasion to extend Imo State’s support and appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, assistance, encouragement and funding of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against insecurity in the country.
He equally thanked the Armed Forces for their gallantry, and assured them that they are not alone and will not be abandoned as his administration will continue to support them.
He also prayed for the Armed Forces as a whole, the people of Imo State and Nigeria in general for peace and unity of the country.
During the event, Governor Uzodimma had laid a wreath as the Special Guest of honour, signed the Register and performed the symbolic release of pigeons to signify peace in the land.
The ceremony was attended by the Wife of the Governor, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe and members of the House of Assembly.
Others include the three Senators of Imo State extraction, members of the Federal House of Representatives, members of the Judiciary, members of the State Executive Council, the leadership of APC at the national, zonal and state levels, local government Chairmen and councillors.
Others were the former Governor of the State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, former Deputy Governors of Imo State (Dr. Jude Agbaso and Chief Mrs. Ada Okewulonu), traditional rulers, all Service Chiefs serving in Imo State, captains of industries and others too numerous to mention.
Earlier in the day, Governor Uzodimma attended the Thanksgiving Church Service of the first year of his second tenure administration at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral Owerri where he recommitted his administration to the service of the people and enjoined all to join hands with him to ensure that Imo State is made the envy of other States in the country.
He thanked the leadership of the Church for their prayers at all times, and pleased with them to appreciate the efforts good people who are in government make to ensure that the society is served well.
The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Rev Lucius Ugorji thanked and prayed for the Governor for all he has done to provide good leadership in Imo State since assuming office and urged him not to loose focus so that he can do more.
Bishop Ugorji also prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes in the spirit of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Thanksgiving Service, and urged the people to show love and kindness to the families of the deceased soldiers who died in the course of serving the Nation.
.Nigeria still haunted by brutal murder of Sir Ahmadu Bello, others in 1966 — Shehu Sani
However, Former Nigerian legislator, Senator Shehu Sani, said on Wednesday that Nigeria is being haunted by the seed of evil of brutal killing of former Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, popularly known as Sardauna of Sokoto, and others in January 1966.
Senator Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the Senate stated this in a post on his social media account.
According to him, Bello did everything for his people and his country Nigeria but died a materially poor man.
He said that no house, vehicle or company could be traced to Bello’s name or any of his family members in Kaduna where he lived, led and brutally murdered, stressing that after he was killed, his belongings were taken to his family home in Sokoto.
Sani wrote, “For those of us in Kaduna where the Late Premier of Northern Nigeria lived, led and was brutally murdered, we couldn’t yet find any house, vehicle or company traced to his name or any of his family members.
“After he was killed, his belongings were taken to his family home in Sokoto.
“The late Sardauna did everything for his people and his country and died a materially poor man.
“His murder and that of others in 1966 was the seed of evil that continues to haunt our country.
“May the souls of all the victims of the 1966 coup rest in peace. Ameen.”
Bello was assassinated on January 15, 1966, during a coup led by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, a coup which toppled Nigeria’s post-independence government.
Bello was still serving as premier of Northern Nigeria at the time of his assassination.
The coup was the first in the history of Nigeria, which heralded the rise of the military regime in Nigeria’s politics.
Also assassinated in the coup was Bello’s longtime friend, Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa alongside many political elites in the northern and western regions of Nigeria.

 

 

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