Anambra commemorates Armed Forces Day, pledges more security initiatives

Governor Willie Obiano has called for collective and individual resolves, to keep Nigeria’s unity, irrespective of sectional, religious and cultural leanings.

Speaking on the occasion of the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebrations, held at Dr Akex Ekwueme Square,  Awka,  Governor Obiano expressed joy that this year’s  celebration is coming at a time the armed forces are gaining more ground in the fight against insurgency.

Represented by his Deputy,  Dr Nkem Okeke, the Governor noted that no Nation can survive in the absense of peace and unity, calling for stock taking of our uniqueness and sacrifices by men  and women of the armed  forces especially the fallen heroes that paid the supreme  sacrifices of  maintaining peace not only in the Country, but beyond the shores of Nigeria.

According to the Governor, this year’s ceremonies is even more poignant following the increasing gallantry of Nigerian troops fighting Boko Haram and the killings of promising military officers and men in the line of duty.

While commending the military for containing Boko Haram terrorists, the Governor posited that recent events across the country on general insecurity and economic sabotage are  a source of concern to every well-meaning Nigerian, stressing that the breakthroughs in all sectors of the State economy is as a result of the secure environment.

He enjoined, citizens and residents in the State to support and coperate with his administration to build viable and sustainable institutions for generations yet unborn and years to come.

Also present at the celebration were the State Chief Judge, Justice Peter Umeadi, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Barrister Rita Mmaduagwu, Head Of Service, Barrister Harry Udu, Attorney General, Barrister Anali Chude, Service Chiefs, Former Governor, Dame Virgy Etiaba, Commissioners, government functionaries, among others.

Wreath Laying, gun salute, inspection of the guard of honour, as well as realease of the significant pigeon as a sign of peace were highpoints of the event.

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated on January 15 every year in Nigeria, dedicated to the remembrance of officers and men, especially, those who died in service to the nation and their surviving colleagues who retired from active service, as well as to mark the end of the Nigeria Civil War, following the surrender of Biafran troops to Federal troops in 1970.

Reports By Ejike Abana