The Kogi State Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their commitments to keeping the nation one, safe and secured.
Bello made the commendation during the 2024 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Parade on Monday in Lokoja.
The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to Kogi State Government (SSG), Dr Folashade Ayoade, showered encomium on members of the Armed Forces both serving and retired for their efforts, sacrifices and commitments to keeping the nation one, safe and secured.
He paid special tributes to those who paid the supreme sacrifice in military expeditions within the country and across the globe.
The governor celebrated the efforts of men and women of the Armed Forces who fought to keep the nation one, and praised them for their dedication and valor.
Bello emphasised the importance of remembering and honouring the sacrifices made by these brave men and women, saying, “we must ensure that their legacy lives on”.
The governor appreciated the Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for his effort towards addressing the lingering security challenges bedevilling the nation at large.
Bello admonished well meaning citizens to see the welfare of the aged servicemen and women as well as the families of the fallen heroes as a collective responsibility to enhance their standard of living.
The Chairman Legion Kogi State, WO David Salawu (Rtd), said the event gave them the opportunity to honour their heroes both serving and retired for their immense contributions, service and sacrifice to the fatherland.
He further salute other veterans that have paid the supreme sacrifice in defending the nation.
“The Nigerian Legion comprises retired, ex-service men and women whom have served the country with pride, commitment, selflessness and dedication.
“We are group of individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their lives and quite old,” David said.
He appealed to the state government and the general public to always extend their support to these group of patriotic citizens especially the families of the fallen heroes.
The highlight of the occasion were the reviewing of parade by the governor, laying of Wreath, signing of the Condolence register, symbolic release of pigeons to signify peace.
The observance of a minute silence and sounding of the last post in honour of the fallen heroes.
Dignitaries at the occasion include: the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi; members of the State Executive Council, and the Etsu Bassa Nge Kingdom, Brig. – Gen. Abu Ali (rtd).
Others were the Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army Brig. -Gen. Haruna Dasuki; Commander Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard Lake Commodore UCV Ajulu, Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha; and Heads of other Security Agencies.
Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Civil Society, Academias, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, members of the state Legion, the press, among others.
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