Lokoja, Kogi State, January 15, 2024: In a solemn ceremony at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier in Lokoja earlier today, Kogi State marked the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, honoring fallen heroes and reaffirming unwavering support for the Nigerian military and its sister security agencies.
In his speech, Governor Yahaya Bello, who was represented by the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Mrs Funmilayo Arike Ayoade, emphasized the added significance of this year’s events being the first under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was only sworn-in last May.
Dr. Ayoade delivered the Governor’s heartfelt praise for the immense sacrifice by the fallen soldiers and assured of the state government’s commitment to their families and serving personnel. He also called on military personnel to recommit to their country and their Commander-in-Chief in line with their service pledge.
Highlights of the ceremony included inspection of the Guard of Honour mounted by men of the Nigerian Army and Navy by the Governor’s representative. Dignitaries present include the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar, Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Josiah Majebi, and the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Oladele Owoniyi who represented traditional rulers. They also laid wreaths at the Cenotaph in memory of those who have paid the ultimate price.
Also in attendance was Commodore Jerry Omodara, the State Security Adviser, Kogi State and other government officials, as well as members of the Armed Forces led by the Commander 12th Brigade, Nigeria Army, Lokoja, Brig-Gen. Hassan Dasuki and Commander NNS Lugard, Commodore Ugochukwu Ajulu. The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, and his men were also present as were members of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), a contingent from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and a cross-section of citizens from all walks of life who turned out to honour the fallen.
In his speech, Governor Bello acknowledged and commended the role of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in transforming Kogi State from a state with heavy security challenges when he took office in 2016 to one enjoying substantial peace and security as he prepares to bow out on 27th January, 2024.
Noting that this transformation is a testament to their courage and vigilance, the Governor expressed his undying gratitude. Governor Bello also announced a token donation of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000.00) for this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Launch.
Governor Bello also assured the security chiefs and the citizens of the state that his successor, Governor-Elect Usman Ododo Ahmed will be even more committed to maintaining the crucial bond of respect and cooperation between the government and the security forces than him.
He urged citizens to give their unwavering support to the incoming administration and to the security agencies as their part in building a nation worthy of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes. The ceremony concluded with the release of doves to symbolize the shared aspirations for enduring peace in Kogi State and Nigeria.
©Kogipedia
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