February 18, 2025

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Bayelsa, Rivers Govs Honour Slain Soldiers

4 min read

The contributions and neglect of men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who passed on in the course of their fatherland were the subject of discourse on Wednesday as governors of Bayelsa and Rivers states have paid glowing tribute to the fallen heroes.

Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, for example, called for concerted effort to build a Nigeria that embodied justice, equity and peace and that was deserving of the sacrifices of the nation’s fallen heroes. 

He stressed the need to move beyond ceremonial gestures and ensure that the sacrifices of the heroes were reflected in the progress and betterment of society, saying said as Nigerians gather annually to honour the memory of former and late soldiers, he was concerned about the paradox that underscored their ultimate sacrifice because they paid the supreme price so that others might live.

He stated: “The legacy of our heroes calls for a Nigeria where justice, equity, and prosperity are tangible realities for all citizens. It is about ensuring that policies and actions bring about meaningful and positive outcomes, addressing the needs of all Nigerians, and working towards the common good.

“Every decision, no matter how big or small, should be made with the aim of fostering unity, justice, peace, promoting development, and enhancing the welfare of every individual in our nation.”

 According to Diri, “the cruel irony of war is that those who fought to bring us peace often did so at the cost of their own lives. The bravery and selflessness displayed by these remarkable individuals have inspired generations of Nigerians, and their legacy continues to shape the chapters of our nation’s history.

 “We remember their sacrifices, their arduous struggles, and their ultimate giving as we honour their memory of striving to create a better Nigeria for every citizen.”

To families of the fallen heroes, the governor pledged his administration’s support to them, stating that their sacrifices were a shared burden.

The governor also expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their role in ensuring that the state remained peaceful and secure, adding that the government would continue to provide essential support to enable them perform their duties efficiently.

“The maintenance of law and order remains a priority for our administration, as it provides the foundation upon which we are constructing a prosperous and thriving society, one conducive for economic growth, social development, and individual wellbeing, ultimately leading to the attainment of our vision for a more prosperous Bayelsa.”

In remembering the fallen heroes in his state, Sim Fubara of Rivers State pointed to the robust government-security agencies’ collaboration that has greatly helped in achieving the reassuring peace and stability enjoyed in the state and described the feat to divine help, insisting that without the grace of God, every human effort and strategies would have come to nothing.

Fubara, after laying the traditional wreath alongside his deputy, speaker of the state house of assembly, the state’s chief judge and service commanders, chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council, acting chairman of the State chapter of Nigerian Legion and a representative of widows of the fallen heroe, also released the pigeons to signify peace.

He emphasised the role every Nigerian must play in achieving enduring peace and security as they continue to support the Armed Forces and security agencies in overcoming security challenges that confront the country.

He said: “Rivers State has enjoyed significant peace and stability under this administration, a testament to the collaboration between the government and security agencies, as well as the grace of God.

“We remain vigilant and steadfast in preserving this peace and will continue to provide the necessary support to security formations in the State to ensure they can effectively discharge their duties.

“I call on every citizen to rally around our Armed Forces and work together to strengthen our national unity. We must ensure that every section of our country feels included and valued, fostering a stronger and more cohesive Nigeria.”

The governor offered the assurance of his administration to remain loyal, supportive while collaborating with the Federal Government in achieving better and improved welfare for men and officers of the nation’s security agencies.

Fubara noted that while Nigeria has endured the trials of civil war, it had continued to tackle the internal threats from terrorism and armed insurgency, saying, “Through it all, our Armed Forces have stood resolute defending us, keeping peace, upholding our nation’s integrity, and ensuring the survival of our beloved country.

“Even as we speak, our servicemen and women remain on the frontlines, courageously combating insurgencies and other threats to our security. Today, we gather to reflect on and celebrate the bravery of our veterans, whose dedication has safeguarded our nation’s territorial integrity and preserved its sovereignty.”

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