Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called for greater support for the Nigerian Armed Forces in recognition of their sacrifices toward preserving the unity and sovereignty of the nation.
The governor made the call while speaking with journalists at the Museum Ground, Oba Ovonramwen Square, Benin City, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, an annual event held to honour fallen military heroes.
Governor Okpebholo said the occasion was dedicated to remembering officers who paid the supreme price in service to the country.
“We are here today to honour our fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the continued existence and unity of Nigeria,” he said. “We are gathered to honour them, believing that their souls are resting in peace, and we pray that their families find the strength to bear the loss.”
He also urged personnel still in active service to remain committed and dedicated to their duties.
“I appeal to those still serving to put in their best while serving their fatherland. I believe God will continue to preserve Nigeria and enable us to honour both the living and the dead who have made great sacrifices to keep the nation united,” the governor added.
Also speaking at the event, the Edo State Coordinator of the Military Widows Association, Umar Sheriffat, appealed to government at all levels to sustain support for widows of fallen military personnel.
She urged relevant authorities to formally recognize and empower military widows to enable them care adequately for the children left behind by their late husbands, who died in service to the nation.
In a similar vein, a retired major of the Nigerian Army, Joe Koma, called for improved welfare for retired military personnel, noting that such care would serve as motivation for officers still in active service.
“We have sacrificed our lives for Nigeria and we need more care,” he said. “While our pensions are being paid regularly, we appeal for an increase and better welfare packages for retirees. This will encourage those who are still serving the nation.”
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour the bravery and sacrifices of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, both past and present.
