Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, Governor of Anambra State, has paid glowing tributes to the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ fallen heroes.
Governor Soludo gave the commendation during the Wreath Laying Ceremony to commemorate the 2023 Armed Forces Day at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka.
The Governor described the day as a time for introspection.
“Today is a day for solemn reflection as we remember and honor our fallen heroes in the Army, Navy, Air Force, police, and secret service who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our collective liberties and rights, as well as those of communities around the world, through the various peacekeeping missions that the Nigerian Armed Forces have undertaken over the years. May their glorious souls rest in peace “Governor Soludo said a prayer.
“We also continue to stand in solidarity with the spouses and family members of the fallen heroes. The nation will never forget as a people.
“As a people, we must never take for granted the great sacrifices of our fallen heroes. The heroes are forever etched on the pages of our history for dying for us to live.
“The 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration began in earnest on Friday, December 9, 2022, with the unveiling of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
“Following the unveiling of the emblem, a church service was held last Sunday, January 8, 2023, at St Faith Cathedral in Awka, and Jumat prayers were held on January 13 at the Central Mosque in Awka.
The Governor went on to say, “Today’s wreath-laying and parade ceremony should serve as the culmination of the patriotic commemoration of the heroism of our brave forces who stood up to be counted in the successful conclusion of the Nigerian Civil War and all other engagements that the armed forces have undertaken in defense of our country and liberties.
“When our country was a British colony, Remembrance Day was celebrated on November 11 as Puppy Day to commemorate the end of World War I, but the end of the Nigeria-Biafra war accounted for the change of date to January 15th, and I hope we all remember this.
“Our esteemed Armed Forces deserve continued praise for their tenacious fight against terrorism, insurgency, and armed banditry throughout the country.
“It is so reassuring and commendable that our men and women in uniform are not resting on their laurels, but rather extending their worthy legacies of veterans,” Governor Soludo said.
“The veterans we honor today have left a solid legacy for the Nigerian Armed Forces of today. They continue to ensure internal peace, as we remember the sacrifices of this armed forces in our dear state, Anambra, in helping to liberate, as we know, the eight local governments that were completely captured before our government was sworn in, and in helping to maintain security throughout the state.
“At this moment let me on behalf of the good people of Anambra State pay special tribute to all those who lost their lives in the determined fight to eliminate criminality in our dear state. “May their souls rest in peace,” prayed the Governor once more.
“Let me also commend all of the state’s security agencies for their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering support. Your enormous sacrifice and devotion will be remembered forever by the great people of Anambra state “, he emphasized.
“To the criminals in Anambra State and throughout the country, particularly those terrorizing parts of Ihiala LGA, we take this opportunity to assure you that light and darkness can never coexist. You will never be able to break our resolve to fully reclaim our state “The Governor issued a warning.
“Our people are determined and will surely have their deserved security, peace and progress. On this account, we will continue to honor our valiant men and women in the armed forces and all state security agencies. We will never forget our honorable ex-servicemen.
“You may be retired, but never tired because you continue to lend your experience and service towards maintaining internal security all over Nigeria.
In keeping with the words of our National Anthem, may the sacrifices of our forefathers not be in vain,” the Governor concluded.
He concluded by wishing everyone a very memorable Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration and requesting that prayers be offered for the souls of fallen heroes in the past.
The event, which was attended by members of the Anambra State Executive Council, state security chiefs, ex-servicemen, and others, included a parade, gun salute, wreath laying, and pigeon release.
