Gov Alex Otti of Abia has affirmed the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of the country’s Armed Forces.
Otti made the remark at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph, Umuahia, on Wednesday.
He said that the government had fulfilled its pledge to support the families of fallen heroes by offering financial assistance to their spouses and giving sponsorship to their children up to the university level.
“It is our job to support these brave men and women who make uncommon sacrifices to guarantee the security and peace of our nation,” Otti said.
He called on well-meaning Nigerians to support the Armed Forces by cooperating with security agencies and upholding values of unity, patriotism, and justice.
He also called on the military to maintain the highest standard of professionalism and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties.
The governor further said that his administration would continue to partner with security agencies to rid the state of all forms of criminality.
He commended the Nigeria Armed Forces for their unwavering courage, sacrifice, patriotism, and dedication to safeguarding the nation.
He also lauded the Federal Government for expanding the scope of the event to include the celebration of the active servicemen and women, who defend the nation’s territorial borders.
“As a nation, it is fitting that a day like this is set aside to collectively celebrate the sacrifices of our servicemen and women and also honour thousands of others who have paid the ultimate price in various battle fronts starting from the First World War.
“I would like to commend the Federal Government for expanding the scope of this event to include the celebration of the active servicemen and women defending our territorial borders from internal and external threat.
“Today is, therefore, an excellent opportunity to honour the memories of those who gave their lives that our nation and its highest values might long endure, and to also appreciate those who continue to fight in different battlefields,” Otti said.
He said that the celebration raises the need to evolve a new set of national values that promote justice as the foundation of the national unity.
He further commended the security agencies in the state for being committed to the safety of the people of Abia.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor inspected a Guard of Honour during the event , while prayers were offered in honour of the fallen heroes.
He also laid a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier and also released pigeons to signify peace.
He also paid special tribute in memory of the brave servicemen who died in active duty in different parts of the state in the last one year.
The list included Staff Sgt. Charles Ugochukwu, Sgt. Bala Abraham, Cpl. Ugwu Gideon, Cpl. Ikpeama Ikechukwu, and Lance Cpl. Augustine Emmanuel.
Others are Lance Cpl. Owolabi Ojo, Sgt. Ojo Godwin, Cpl. Aliu Sunday, and Lance Cpl. Akhider Sunday. (NAN)
