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Tag: Armed Forces

  • 2026 AFCRD: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to welfare, dignity of Armed Forces

    2026 AFCRD: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to welfare, dignity of Armed Forces

    …honours fallen heroes, assures serving personnel of continued support

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, assuring officers and men that the nation stands firmly behind those who defend its sovereignty.

    In a message to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), the President, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, said a secure Nigeria would continue to support its military personnel in the discharge of their duties.

    “As President and Commander in Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it. We will continue to support them in action,” Tinubu said.

    The President noted that the annual commemoration provided an opportunity for the nation to pause and honour the memory of officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the ultimate price in the service of the country.

    Read Also: FG honours COAS Shaibu, Buratai, Uba, others at AFCRD gala night

    “We remember the brave men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who sacrificed everything for our country. Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace,” he said, adding that a nation that forgets its fallen heroes risks losing its sense of direction.

    President Tinubu also paid tribute to the families of fallen service members, acknowledging the deep pain borne by widows, children, and loved ones left behind.

    “Your loss is profound, and no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones. They served Nigeria with honour, and our people will never forget their sacrifices,” he said.

    While honouring the fallen, the President celebrated serving personnel across all formations, commending their discipline, courage, and professionalism in protecting lives and property on land, sea, and air, often at great personal cost and far from home.

    “From the frontlines to support positions, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting our people and sovereignty,” Tinubu said.

    He, however, prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen, strength for the Armed Forces, and God’s continued blessings on Nigeria.

  • Jimoh Ibrahim hails Armed Forces as Nigeria ranks 31st in global military strength

    Jimoh Ibrahim hails Armed Forces as Nigeria ranks 31st in global military strength

    Senator representing Ondo South, Jimoh Ibrahim, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their professionalism, resilience and sustained contributions to national security.

    The commendation followed Nigeria’s ranking as the 31st strongest military in the world in the 2025 Global Firepower Report.

    In a statement yesterday, Ibrahim, who is also Nigeria’s ambassador-designate and founder of the Institute for Security and Modern War Studies at the University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State, said the Armed Forces had continued to demonstrate exceptional commitment despite evolving security challenges.

    “The Nigerian Armed Forces have remained steadfast in their constitutional responsibility of safeguarding over 250 million Nigerians, even as security threats grow more dynamic and sophisticated,” he said.

    The lawmaker noted that with an estimated personnel strength of about 230,000 and an annual defence budget of roughly $2 billion, representing about one per cent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, the military had recorded notable progress in counter-terrorism and internal security operations.

    He said, “The successes recorded in counter-terrorism and internal security efforts are critical to preserving Nigeria’s sovereignty, internal cohesion and territorial integrity.”

    Ibrahim also highlighted Nigeria’s role beyond its borders, pointing to peacekeeping and stabilisation missions under the Economic Community of West African States in Liberia and Sierra Leone, as well as operations in Sudan, Mali, The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau.

    “These interventions have consistently reinforced Nigeria’s standing as a stabilising force and a responsible security leader on the African continent,” he added.

    He further cited the 2025 Global Firepower Report, which ranked Nigeria 31st globally and third in Africa, describing the ranking as evidence of the Armed Forces’ increasing strategic relevance.

    Ibrahim attributed recent improvements in operational capacity and morale to the commitment of President Bola Tinubu, particularly in troop welfare and institutional support.

    “As Nigeria approaches 2026, Nigerians must continue to stand firmly with the Armed Forces, whose sacrifices remain central to our peace, unity and stability, not only within our borders but across the African region,” he said.

  • Armed Forces Reform Bill scales second reading at Senate

    Armed Forces Reform Bill scales second reading at Senate

    The Senate yesterday passed for second reading a Bill seeking to repeal and re-enact the Armed Forces Act to provide for a modern, constitutionally compliant, and operationally responsive legal framework for the Nigerian military.

    The proposed legislation, titled: “A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Armed Forces Act and to re-enact a modern, constitutionally compliant and operationally responsive legal framework for the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and for Related Matters, 2025”

    was sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central).

    In his lead debate, Yar’Adua said the existing Armed Forces Act, originally derived from military decrees of the 1960s and last consolidated in 2004, no longer reflects the realities of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and complex security challenges.

    Read Also: Troops neutralise nine ISWAP terrorists in ongoing onslaught in Borno

    “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain the cornerstone of our sovereignty and national security,” Yar’Adua said.

    “They have stood gallantly in defence of our nation, from combating insurgency and terrorism to peacekeeping missions across Africa.

    “However, our military law has not kept pace with the evolving defence environment.”

    The Katsina lawmaker explained that the Bill seeks to align the governance of the Armed Forces with constitutional principles, democratic accountability, and international best practices.

    He said it also aims to modernise disciplinary procedures, operational structures, and welfare provisions for service personnel.

    According to him, obsolete fines, such as N200 and N500 penalties, would be replaced with percentage-based sanctions tied to officers’ salary levels, while fair hearing provisions and expanded rights for non-commissioned officers would be introduced to boost morale and ensure justice.

    Yar’Adua noted that many democracies, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa, have reformed their military laws to promote professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to lag,” he said.

    Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) supported the Bill, describing the proposed reform as long overdue.

    “As we advance in our democracy, it is necessary to align our Armed Forces with modern laws that reflect transparency and professionalism,” he said.

    Also, Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) said the legislation would strengthen civilian oversight of the military and ensure that military authorities operate within democratic frameworks.

    “This Bill seeks to bring our military laws in tandem with international best practices and under the control of democratically elected institutions,” Monguno said.

    Senator Sampson Ekong (APC, Akwa Ibom South) described the proposed Bill as a “profound reform initiative” aimed at deepening the nation’s defence policy framework and reinforcing professionalism within the Armed Forces.

    The Bill was passed for second reading after Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the plenary, put it to a voice vote.

    Barau referred the Bill to the Senate Committees on Defence, Army, Air Force, and Navy for further legislative work, with a directive to report back within four weeks.

  • UPDATED: Senate confirms new Service Chiefs as Armed Forces vow improved security

    UPDATED: Senate confirms new Service Chiefs as Armed Forces vow improved security

    The Senate has confirmed President Bola Tinubu’s nominees as the new Service Chiefs after an intensive closed-door screening that centred on Nigeria’s deepening security challenges.

    At the end of the over two-hour session presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Upper Chamber unanimously approved the appointments of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General Waheedi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral Idi Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff and Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke as Chief of Air Staff.

    The Service Chiefs, while answering questions from Senators before the executive session, promised sweeping reforms to modernise the Armed Forces, boost troop morale, promote local arms production, use of technology, and deepen cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

    General Oluyede said his leadership would drive a “technology-driven, self-reliant” defence system that reduces dependence on foreign arms.

    He said: “We cannot continue to rely on foreign suppliers for our weapons. It is economically unsustainable and strategically risky.

    “My focus will be to build a strong local military-industrial base that can produce what we need to defend the nation.”

    He pledged to make intelligence-led, data-driven warfare the backbone of joint operations, while prioritising welfare, healthcare, housing, and education for soldiers’ families.

    “Morale is the backbone of fighting power,” he said.

    Oluyede also called for a comprehensive reform of the police to enable it to take charge of internal security, so as to free the military to focus on external defence.

    “The military alone cannot secure Nigeria. Security is everyone’s business,” he added.

    Senators praised the nominees’ strategic focus, with Borno North Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno commending Oluyede’s experience in the insurgency war, while Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) urged him to treat troop welfare as non-negotiable.

    Rear Admiral Abbas, the new Chief of Naval Staff, promised to overhaul maritime operations, expand drone surveillance, and intensify the fight against piracy and oil theft.

    He also said that there was no need for setting up the proposed Coast Guards, as the Navy is already performing their expected role.

    “The Navy’s constitutional roles already cover what a Coast Guard would do.

    “What we need is better funding and modern surveillance systems,” he said.

    He said the Navy had deployed drones to monitor remote creeks and set up a Special Operations Command in Makurdi to boost patrols on the Benue-Lokoja waterways.

    Abbas also said there is  need for victim-centred reintegration of repentant militants, saying: “Deradicalisation must include justice and healing.”

    Aneke, the new Chief of Air Staff, vowed to transform the Air Force into a “combat-ready, disciplined, and intelligent” service anchored on drone technology and rapid-response capability.

    “Modern warfare is technology-driven. Unmanned aerial systems perform many missions better and safer than manned aircraft. We will invest in them,” he said.

    Aneke assured senators that Nigeria’s $1.2 billion Super Tucano aircraft fleet remains operational and vital to ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

    “They are flying every night in the North-East and North-West. Each missile costs about $100,000, the price of peace,” he said.

    He promised to prioritise pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and personnel welfare, while seeking legislative support for defence technology funding.

    Together, the new Service Chiefs outlined a unified vision, one built on synergy, innovation, and welfare, to secure Nigeria’s land, sea, and airspace.

    General Oluyede vowed to drive joint operations with Rear Admiral Abbas to safeguard maritime assets, and Air Vice Marshal Aneke to ensure air dominance.

    All three reaffirmed loyalty to President Tinubu’s defence reform agenda and promised to deliver tangible results in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and oil theft.

    “We are here to serve. Every naira invested in the military must translate into peace, safety, and pride for Nigerians,” Aneke said.

    With their confirmation, the Service Chiefs now form the core of Tinubu’s new security architecture, tasked with restoring stability to the North-East, ending banditry in the North-West, and defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity across all fronts.

  • Reps move to enhance operational efficiency of Armed Forces

    Reps move to enhance operational efficiency of Armed Forces

    The House of Representatives is seeking to improve the service efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces through the amendment of the Armed Forces Act to strengthen the command structure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    The House passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 sponsored by Aminu Balele (APC, Katsina), Midala Usman Balami (PDP, Borno) and Daniel Asama (APC, Benue) 

    Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill Balami said that the proposed legislation aims to “clarify the roles, responsibilities, and command structure of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, ensuring effective coordination, discipline, and operational efficiency.”

    He said the passage of the amendment was crucial to modernising Nigeria’s military laws in line with constitutional provisions and global best practices.

    He explained that the proposed changes will promote operational efficiency, constitutional compliance, civilian oversight, and enhanced accountability in the military.

    He said further that the bill seeks to reaffirm the President’s role as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, with the Chief of Defence Staff exercising “general superintendence” over the military’s command and coordination.

    “The Bill delineates the roles and responsibilities of the Forces Council, the Minister of Defence, and the Service Chiefs, while clarifying the delegation of operational use of the Armed Forces, ensuring that the President’s authority is maintained. 

    “The proposed amendment to the Armed Forces Act is essential for enhancing the operational efficiency, accountability, and effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. 

    “I therefore urge my respected colleagues to support that this Bill be read for the second time and referred to the relevant committee for further legislative action.”

  • No investment in security, armed forces is too much – Senate 

    No investment in security, armed forces is too much – Senate 

    The Senate Committee on Defence, says no investment in security and the Armed Forces of Nigeria will be too much for the country to bear.

    The committee’s Chairman, Sen. Ahmad Lawal, said this while speaking to newsmen after an oversight visit to the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, in Kaduna on Monday.

    Lawal said that contemporarily, everything revolves round security, promising to ensure that the nation’s security and armed forces continue to receive the attention that currently befits them.

    “When we are able to secure our environment, then we can provide other things easily and comfortably,”he said.

    Lawal stated that at the Senate, they consider the AFCSC as one of the most important  institutions that provides training and education for the nation’s military.

    ”This is at both tactical, operational and mid-level for officers that lead various military operations,” he said..

    Lawal, therefore, said in such light, a conducive  environment was needed to achieve the desired goal at all costs.

    “There has to be significant funding in the funding of the AFCSC and other defence institutions like the NDA and National Defence College.

    “I say this with all sense of responsibility, because this is where other people from different parts of the world come to receive training.

    ”This gives it a clear testimony that what we do is in the right direction,”he said

    The committee chairman emphasised that the institutions must be encouraged to continue to provide the services it does.

    He, therefore, said in the 2025 appropriations, the National Assembly should be able to provide more funding for the institutions and security agencies across the country.

    “This is supposed to be what is most important for us as a country today,”he said.

    Lawal congratulated the AFCSC Commandant and his predecessors for working tirelessly towards building the institution since its establishment over the years.

    (NAN)

  • Bill to involve Armed Forces in farming, food production passed for second reading

    Bill to involve Armed Forces in farming, food production passed for second reading

    The House of Representatives yesterday passed for the second reading a Bill to make the Armed Forces get involved in food production to boost food security and promote economic diversification in the country.

    The Bill, sponsored by Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos), seeks to establish the Armed Forces Farms and Ranches to enhance food security and promote economic diversification.

    Leading the debate on the Bill, Benson described the Defence Farms and Ranches as an initiative for boosting agricultural production by leveraging the resources and capabilities of the nation’s Armed Forces.

    The lawmaker said it is a broader effort to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on oil revenue, and address food security challenges by leveraging the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited and the Command Agriculture initiative.

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    He said the Defence Farms and Ranches scheme is not a new initiative as it is built on earlier efforts by previous governments to involve the military in agricultural production.

    Benson recalled that military farms had existed in various forms, primarily for the sustenance of military personnel.

    The lawmaker noted that by involving the military in agricultural activities, the scheme aims to increase food production and contribute to national food security, leverage extensive land holdings, manpower and organisational capacity of the military and supports Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy by promoting agriculture as a viable economic alternative to oil.

  • President acknowledges role Armed Forces in first-line defence at Emblem Appeal launch

    President acknowledges role Armed Forces in first-line defence at Emblem Appeal launch

    • Fed Govt donates N500m to the Nigerian Legion

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the nation’s Armed Forces play a vital role in national security, peace and development.

    He said no economic system would work without peace and security, stressing that the military personnel are the nation’s “first line of defence”.

    President Tinubu said this while addressing the audience of service members, veterans, and government officials at the Council Chambers of State House yesterday in Abuja.

    The President expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces for their unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s stability and progress.

    The Federal Government donated N500 million to the Nigerian Legion in commemoration of next year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund launch.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President said: “No matter what economic theory we propagate or postulate, if there is no security, we cannot promote peace and development.”

    He noted that economic initiatives alone cannot drive prosperity without a secure foundation.

    President Tinubu acknowledged the considerable challenges facing Nigeria but reaffirmed his faith in the country’s security personnel.

    He said: “I am grateful to all of you on behalf of the country. The challenges are severe but you are this country’s first line of defence. Thank you for your patriotic commitment to Nigerian unity, stability, and progress.”

    President Tinubu, who emphasised that the welfare of the security forces would remain his administration’s top priority, paid tributes to men and women who have paid the ultimate price in the defence of the country, assuring the citizens that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

    “We came today to remember our fallen heroes, men and women who have sacrificed their lives for this country’s unity, stability and progress. We are committed to their values, principles, beliefs, and the unity and strength of this country as we pass on a banner without stain to the next generation.

    “It is a great honour for me to launch the emblem once again. The welfare of our men and women in the Armed Forces will continue to be our top priority. I want to thank all of you.”

    Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru thanked President Tinubu for his continued support for the welfare of the Armed Forces, serving, retired, and fallen heroes, and their relations.

    “Let us remember that unveiling this emblem serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift our Armed Forces and their families. Therefore, you will agree that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is more than just a commemoration; it is a call to action.

    Read Also: Making the armed forces attractive to Lagos youths

    “Hence, this Appeal Fund we are launching today to provide essential support to our veterans and their families becomes crucial. The funds raised will directly contribute to welfare programmes, offering vital services such as healthcare, education, and financial assistance.”

    The National Chairman of the Nigeria Legion, Major-General Abdulmalik Jibril (retd.), praised the President for his continued support for the legion and their families, especially for the unprecedented donation.

    He added that with the donation the families of the fallen heroes would “not be left in the streets and will not become beggars”.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Federal Executive Council (FEC) members, service chiefs, heads of other security and paramilitary agencies, and representatives of the Nigerian Legion were also present at the event.

  • Making the armed forces attractive to Lagos youths

    Making the armed forces attractive to Lagos youths

    By Rasak Musbau

    As Lagos continues to evolve as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, its role in shaping the nation’s future extends beyond commerce and industry. A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of this evolution is the representation of Lagos indigenes in the national armed forces.

    Despite its status as the nation’s major urban and economic centre, Lagos faces a significant challenge in ensuring equitable representation within the military and police forces.

    The importance of the military and other security forces is immense in maintaining national stability, protecting sovereignty, and ensuring public safety. For Lagos indigenes, achieving fair representation in these forces is not just about equal access but also about ensuring that the city’s diverse perspectives and unique needs are reflected at the national level.

    Lagos, with its vibrant population of over 20 million people, is Nigeria’s largest city and a melting pot of diverse ethnicities and cultures. However, its indigenes are underrepresented in the armed forces, a striking disparity, given the city’s significant contributions to national development and its strategic importance in national security.

    A military that reflects the diversity of its population is better equipped to address the unique challenges of different regions. For Lagos, this means that the city’s urban security needs and economic interests can be better understood and managed by those in positions of authority.

    Furthermore, a fair representation in national institutions fosters a greater sense of unity and trust. For Lagos, increased presence in the armed forces and other national security outfits would contribute to a more cohesive national identity and help alleviate regional tensions.

    Moreover, enrolment in the security forces opens a wide range of opportunities for Lagos youth. By increasing local recruitment, more young Lagosians can access training, employment, and career advancement opportunities within the armed forces.

    Read Also: Babalola seeks inclusion of private universities in students loan 

    However, despite the clear need for greater representation, Lagos indigenes face several barriers. These include awareness and access issues, economic barriers, and socio-cultural perceptions. Many Lagosians, especially the youth, may not be fully aware of the opportunities available within the armed forces or may lack the resources to navigate the recruitment processes effectively.

    Additionally, the high cost of education and living expenses in Lagos can limit access to necessary training and qualifications for military service. There may also be misconceptions or stigmas associated with military service that deter potential candidates.

    To overcome these challenges and encourage Lagos youth to pursue careers in the armed forces, several strategies can be implemented. First and foremost, there is a need to demystify military careers and highlight the benefits and opportunities available. Collaborating with educational institutions and community organizations can further amplify these efforts.

    Secondly, the state can invest in mentorship programs and financial support initiatives to help alleviate economic barriers that may prevent Lagos indigenes from enrolling in security forces. Scholarships, training programs, and assistance with application processes can make a significant difference.

    Thirdly, campaigns to promote the value and prestige of military service can help shift cultural perceptions. Showcasing successful Lagos indigenes that have excelled in the armed forces can serve as powerful role models and inspire others.

    Highlighting successful Lagos indigenes that have excelled in the armed forces is crucial in illustrating the potential and success that Lagosians can achieve in these careers. Notable individuals include Admiral Adekunle Lawal (rtd) and Chief Olabode George, who have achieved distinguished careers in the Nigerian Navy.

     Lawal was appointed Military Governor of Lagos State in July 1975-1977 after the coup that brought General Murtala Mohammed to power. He held the position of Lagos State Military Governor until 1977 when he was transferred to become governor of Imo State in 1977. He held this position until July 1978, after which he resumed his career in the Nigerian Navy.

    Brigadier General Sikiru Adebayo, originally from Lagos, has made significant strides in the Nigerian Army, earning respect through his leadership and tactical expertise. General Akinola Olutoye, a prominent figure in the Nigerian Army, hails from Lagos and has made exemplary contributions to military strategy.

    Rear Admiral Michael Abiodun, also from Lagos, has excelled in the Nigerian Navy with notable operational and leadership roles. These individuals highlight the impact that Lagosians can have in military careers and the broader defence sector.

    It is commendable that the Lagos State government has already begun initiatives to encourage more youth to join the Nigerian Armed Forces. The state Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, has highlighted the need to sensitize Lagosians on the benefits of military service.

    Similarly, the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties, Hon. Olawale Age-Suleiman have also emphasized the importance of shifting perceptions and reassuring parents about the safety and benefits of military careers.

    In conclusion, Lagos’s pursuit of equitable representation in the armed forces is crucial for both national unity and development. By addressing barriers to entry and promoting the value of military service, Lagos indigenes can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s armed forces. This is a call to action for all Lagosians, particularly the youth, to recognize the importance of their involvement and to take proactive steps toward achieving a more inclusive and representative military.

    Through increased awareness, support, and advocacy, Lagos can ensure that its vibrant youth population is well-represented and actively contributing to the defence and development of the nation. The time is now for Lagos youth to step up, seize the opportunities, and be a part of this vital national endeavour.

    •Musbau is of the Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

  • Armed Forces Remembrance Day: CDS, governors, clergy promise  support

    Armed Forces Remembrance Day: CDS, governors, clergy promise  support

    Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged the Armed Forces to continue to be vigilant in the discharge of their responsibilities.

     He said they should overcome security threats to ensure peace in the nation.

     Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo–Olu; his colleagues, Charles Soludo (Anambra); Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers); Hope Uzodimma (Imo); and Ahmed Aliyu (Sokoto),  have promised support and commitment to welfare of the Armed Forces.

     Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has reiterated that the National Assembly would support President Bola Tinubu in solving all forms of criminality in the country.

    Archbishop of Abuja Africa Metropolitan Church, Peter Ogumiyiwa has said for Nigeria to be secured, salaries and emoluments of military personnel and security agents should be paid promptly.

    They gave these assurances yesterday in churches as part of activities lined up to commemorate 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

    The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated every January 15 to honour troops who died in the cause of defending the country.

    Gen. Musa said the day holds “great significance as it gives us the opportunity to reflect on sacrifices, bravery and commitment of our fallen heroes in defending the territorial integrity of our country.”

    He said: “As we know, this event is conducted annually to mark the commitment and heroism demonstrated by our  service men and women in military operations. Additionally, this day holds great significance as it provides the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, bravery and commitment of our fallen heroes in defending the country. We remember and pay tribute to them for their sacrifices every day as they gave ‘their today’ for ‘our tomorrow’. 

     “On this special occasion, let me also honour and acknowledge the contributions of our gallant officers and both serving and retired. Your selfless dedication in protecting our  freedom and security have resulted in the relative peace we enjoy today.”

     Akpabio: military will be well-equipped

    Akpabio called on the church to partner the President to rebrand the country.

     He chided Soludo for describing Nigeria as a dead horse standing.

     “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a step and the rot we are seeing today started from Independence.

     “It did not start with Tinubu. But I said America took 185 years to produce a member of parliament as President and another member as Vice President.

    “I think that was President John Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon Johnson. But in Nigeria, less than 30 years, we have a President as senator and we have a Vice President as a senator.

     “This means they know the problems of the grassroots and are determined to solve them.

    Sanwo-Olu remembers fallen heroes

    Sanwo-Olu has appealed to residents to pray, support and remember families of the Armed Forces, as well as fallen heroes, who paid the prize for peace and security.

     The governor, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff, Gboyega Soyannwo, said the event presented opportunity to remember fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for Nigeria.

     He said: “We are gathered in the presence of God and in thanksgiving to Him as we remember our fallen heroes who sacrificed while preserving the unity and integrity of our nation.

    “Today, the government and the people of Lagos State are united to appreciate the sacrifice of the departed; to pray for the continued repose of their souls; to remember their families as well as those who have become incapacitated (one way or the other) as a result of injuries sustained in the war.

    Soludo salutes their courage

    Soludo has said services rendered by security operatives will not be forgotten.

     He emphasised the importance of the mass as an opportunity to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces.

    Shortly before condoling families of those who fell in the line of duty, he prayed for God’s strength for those putting their lives on the line to protect their fatherland.

     The governor hailed security officials in the state, highlighting their vital role in restoring peace and security to the state and region.

     “In March 2022, when eight local governments were under siege, it was the professionalism and commitment of the Armed Forces, with Anambra Vigilante services and support of our people, that led to return of peace,” Soludo said.

    Alia:  they must be well-cared for

    Alia has urged everyone to ensure those who served in the  Armed forces are well taken care of.

     He said meeting the needs of those who sacrificed their lives to keep the country safe, is the only way they can forget their ugly moments in service.

    The governor called for prayers for their families, saying their bravery and sacrifices have ensured the rest of the citizens are safe.

    Read Also: Tinubu to grace Uzodimma’s swearing in ceremony Monday

     Alia, who described the event as a day to honour services and commitment of the Armed Forces, urged the people to ensure peace in the state and country, as a mark of honour to the fallen heroes.

    They should be celebrated, says Fubara

    Fubara has said the quality of service by the security forces galvanised people to celebrate them.

     He said: “It is not an easy thing for you to be on the stage just like we are today, and after performing people will remember you. So, I am happy we are associated with their good performance.

      “There are those who have performed and gone, there are those still performing, especially the service commanders here with us. We also have the ones performing at the federal level. But the essence is we are all performing for the unity and protection of Nigeria.

     “For us as a government, we will continue to support, not just the fallen heroes, but those alive to enable them continue to defend the integrity of our country,” he added.

    Uzodimma seeks prayers for departed soldiers

     Uzodimma said it was not a coincidence his inauguration thanksgiving and swearing-in on January 15 are taking place same time, reminding the congregation of the need to pursue peace in the country. 

    He sought prayers for souls of the departed soldiers, who died defending the country, and appealed to the public not to forget to take care of their families.

    He promised that his government would fulfil its obligations towards well-being of their families as well as those still in service.

    Aliyu: Nigeria owes fallen heroes

    Aliyu has said Nigeria owes families of its fallen heroes for sacrifices made for the unity and stability of the country.

    He said: ” Nothing is too much to donate for their efforts at keeping Nigeria united. We will sustain our support to the military, families of our fallen heroes and Nigerian Legion.

     “The military has made  sacrifices for the peace and unity of Nigeria and expanded its frontiers across West Africa under AU, ECOWAS and UN mission”.

    Ogumiyiwa berates past Service chiefs of living in affluence

    The archbishop has said insecurity persists in Nigeria because past Service chiefs lived in affluence, while they complain of lack of funds to fight insecurity.

     He also said for Nigeria to be well secured, salaries and emoluments of military personnel and security agents should be paid promptly.

     In his message: “Hope of a New Dawn”, Ogumiyiwa said: “We are Christians and are the light of the world. All this wealth you are accumulating, where are you taking it to? We are all going to give an account of our stewardship before God. Our serving offficers and Service chiefs should ensure that everyone is safe.”

     He said while checkpoints have become obsolete means of containing criminalities, the military and other security personnel have turned them into tollgates.

     The cleris said the level of insecurity is worrisome, with Northcentral worse hit.