Victor Ezeja
As Nigeria marks Armed Forces Remembrance Day, President Bola Tinubu and opposition leaders – Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have paid tribute to Nigeria’s former and serving military officers.
15th January every year is a day set aside to remember all fallen military heroes, veterans, and active service members who made selfless sacrifices for the peace and stability of the country.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a statement, President Tinubu noted that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day event gives the opportunity to express gratitude and pay tribute to all men and women who served the country through the armed forces and selflessly sacrificed their lives to defend the territorial integrity of not just Nigeria but also other nations.
The president stressed that the country and the World generally, “is in dire need of peace,” and urged the citizens to shun all forms of violence and divisive acts to achieve a peaceful and prosperous nation.
“As we mark this solemn event today, remember that people laid down their lives, and many still do so to guarantee our peaceful co-existence. Therefore, let us eschew violence and divisive tendencies for a peaceful and prosperous nation.
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“Let us all become ambassadors of peace. We can build a future of hope and optimism together, where peace and unity reign supreme,” the President who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria, admonished.
On his part, Atiku, in a terse statement via his X handle, paid tribute to the sacrifices of men and women serving the country in various military formations. The former vice president and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election prayed that their sacrifices for the stability of the country will not be in vain.
Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 polls, expressed gratitude to gallant military officers “who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace and security of our beloved nation.”
In a statement via his X handle, Obi also offered words of encouragement to military officers in active-duty who are stationed on various frontlines, bravely combating the scourge of insecurity across the country, adding that their sacrifices are deeply appreciated.
He further urged them to remain resolute in the noble mission of securing the country’s future despite the prevailing challenges.
He also called on the government to prioritize the welfare of military personnel by ensuring access to quality healthcare for them and their families, as well as education for their children. “These essential measures will inspire greater commitment and reinforce their dedication to building a safer and better Nigeria,” he emphasised.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
