Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has paid glowing tribute to the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces, praising their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the peace and territorial integrity of the nation.
Speaking during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph in Umuahia, the Governor emphasized that the freedom and security enjoyed by citizens today are the direct results of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes and those still in active service.
The ceremony, marked by the traditional laying of wreaths and a 21-gun salute, brought together heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and veterans. Governor Otti noted that January 15 remains a “sacred date” on the Nigerian calendar—a time to reflect on the cost of unity.
“We are here not just to perform a ritual, but to renew a debt of gratitude. To the families of our fallen heroes, we owe a commitment that their sacrifice will never be in vain,” the Governor stated.
Governor Otti used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s dedication to the welfare of security personnel stationed within the state.
In his closing remarks, the Governor urged Nigerians to embrace peace and dialogue as the primary tools for nation-building, noting that a peaceful society reduces the burden on the military. He commended the synergy between the state government and the various security wings, which has led to a significant reduction in crime rates across Abia State over the past year.
The event concluded with a parade by the Nigerian Army and Navy, symbolizing the strength and continuity of the nation’s defense forces.
