Top government officials and other dignitaries led by the newly appointed Liaison Officer for Akoko-Edo Government Area, Hon Jeffrey Obasanmi, on Sunday laid wreaths in honour of Nigerian fallen heroes who paid the supreme price for our national unity.
The ceremony which marked the end of the week-long Armed Forces Remembrance Day was witnessed by several dignitaries including traditional rulers and military commanders in the area.
Speaking at the event, the head of local government administration and acting chairman of Akoko-Edo local government area, Dr Innocent Alenoghena eulogised the fallen officers and men of the Nigerian armed forces
He said that the occasion was yet another solemn moment for us to remember and pay tributes to our heroic men and women who put their lives on the line to guarantee peace, stability and unity in Nigeria.
“The contribution and achievements of those fallen compatriots who died while ensuring the survival of our great country must not be allowed to be in vain”.
He called for the support of philanthropists, public spirited individuals, companies and NGOs to cater for families of the slain soldiers as well as disabled ones, restating his administration’s commitment to the welfare of military veterans and families of the fallen heroes in Akoko-Edo LGA.
“Our armed forces are today battling criminals who have challenged our national sovereignty in the area of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and all forms of social vices geared towards driving our country into extinction. We must salute the courage of our Ex service men for rising to the occasion and ensuring that the country remained united against all odds”.
Dr Alenoghena lauded the efforts of the Executive Governor of Edo state, Mr Godwin Obaseki for his continuous support to the veterans since assumption of office.
Also at the event, the Liaison Officer to the local government, Hon Jeffrey Obasanmi made a donation on behalf of the local government council towards the welfare of families of the fallen heroes.
In his vote of thanks, the chairman of Nigeria legion Akoko-Edo chapter, Rtd Colonel Abdulkadir Usman appreciated the guests for their show of love and solidarity, explaining that the ceremony was held annually to commemorate fallen heroes for their resilience and patriotic services to the nation.
He commended the head of the local government administration for providing support, noting that upon disengagement from service, they automatically become part of the local government’s security structure. He called for sophisticated weapons to enhance their operations in the locality.
