In a commendation of the highest order, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed admiration for the dedication and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of the Enugu State Government to stand behind them in their mission to safeguard the nation.
While acknowledging the supreme sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, Governor Mbah asserted that the Enugu State Government would persist in providing support to ensure the safety and security of the country. He urged Nigerians to steer clear of hate expressions and acts of violence, highlighting that embracing unity and peace is the only way to truly honor the bravery of the servicemen and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
These affirmations and calls for unity were made by the governor during the poignant wreath-laying ceremony and parade at the Okpara house in Enugu, marking the culmination of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day events.
Governor Mbah underlined the significance of the Remembrance Day celebration, an annual event dedicated to honoring the memory of the courageous men and women of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure freedom. He paid tribute to the fallen heroes involved in various operations, ranging from the Nigerian Civil War to internal security missions and international peacekeeping efforts in locations like Chad, Somalia, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, among others.
Expressing gratitude for the sacrifices of the departed defenders, Governor Mbah emphasized the collective responsibility of ensuring that their sacrifices were not in vain. He called on citizens to contribute to the maintenance of peace and security by rejecting hate and violence while providing unwavering support to the security agencies.
Governor Mbah assured that his administration would continue to back the men and women of the security services in the state. He concluded by offering prayers for the repose of the souls of the fallen Armed Forces members and thanked the current armed forces and security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and stability in Enugu State.
The governor extended his appreciation to the Commanders, officers, soldiers, and airmen of the 82 Division Nigerian Army, 553 Base Services Group Nigerian Air Force, and other security agencies. He commended them for their untiring sacrifices and urged them to maintain discipline and patriotism.
Governor Mbah concluded by wishing members of the Armed Forces and their families a meaningful 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration. The event, marked by symbolic gestures such as the release of pigeons as a symbol of peace, drew the participation of key figures from various arms of government and military formations in the state. Among the attendees were the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Ozoemenam Afojulu, and the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major Gen. Hassan Taiwo Dada, represented by Brigadier General Murtala Abu. Other dignitaries present included the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Police Command, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, and the Commander, 553 Base Service Group (BSG), Nigerian Air Force, Commodore S.A Eyoma, among others.
