Akamkpa stood still in solemn remembrance on Thursday, 15 January 2026, as the Akamkpa Local Government Council marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with a dignified ceremony that blended tradition, military honour, prayer, and national reflection.
The event, held in Akamkpa, brought together the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, members of the Legislative Council, the Head of Local Government Administration, serving and retired security personnel, the Nigerian Legion Akamkpa Branch, the traditional institution, council staff, political leaders, and invited guests.
In his address, the Chairman described the day as one of “solemn reflection and deep gratitude,” noting that Armed Forces Remembrance Day is not merely ceremonial but a sacred national duty. Speaking on the theme, “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” Akposi said the peace enjoyed today was bought at an immeasurable cost.
“Valour speaks of the uncommon bravery of our fallen heroes who stood firm in the face of danger,” he said. “Sacrifice reminds us that the peace we enjoy today was purchased with their lives, their comfort, and the tears of their families.”
He traced the defining role of the Armed Forces in the survival of the Nigerian state, from historic battlefields to contemporary security challenges, stressing that many paid the supremum sacrificium, while others returned with visible and invisible scars.
“We remember those who paid the supreme price, and we reaffirm our support to those still in service, as well as veterans who have given the best years of their lives to the nation,” the Chairman stated.
Hon. Akposi further challenged citizens to honour fallen heroes beyond wreaths and ceremonies. “We honour them best when we reject division, promote understanding, and work together to build a society where justice, fairness, and opportunity prevail,” he said, assuring veterans and their families of the council’s continued respect, cooperation, and partnership with security agencies to sustain peace across Akamkpa.
The Legion Chairman, Rtd. Staff Sergeant Ntui, in a heartfelt goodwill message, thanked the government and the Akamkpa Local Government Council under Hon. Akposi for sustaining the legacy of remembrance.
“Today’s event is a gentle reminder to all of us about our brothers who fought to protect this country,” he said. “It also reminds us of the scars of the various battles we face. We have the wives of our brothers here who share in that experience.”
He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, “for keeping the flag flying,” and commended the Chairman for his time, sacrifices, and consistent contributions. He used the occasion to appeal to corporate bodies, organisations, and individuals to support the families of fallen heroes. “It is not easy with us who are still alive, let alone the families of those we celebrate today,” he added.
The ceremony was enriched by a brief word of exhortation from Pastor Emmanuel Akposi, Special Adviser on Religious Affairs, who reminded the gathering that remembrance carries a moral obligation. He urged unity, compassion, and selfless service, noting that true honour lies in living lives worthy of the sacrifice made by the fallen. His message echoed the theme, calling for a nation bound together in unum corpus, guided by conscience, faith, and love for country.
The event witnessed an impressive military display, including the ceremonial guard, inspection of the guard of honour, and the laying of wreaths by the Chairman, the Leader of Council, the Head of Local Government Administration, heads of security agencies in Akamkpa, the Paramount Ruler and traditional institution, and the Nigerian Legion.
The solemn stage of the ceremony featured the sounding of the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the playing of the Reveille, as the national flag flew at half-mast in honour of the fallen heroes, a moment that evoked deep emotion and collective reflection.
In attendance were the Vice Chairman of Council, Hon. Emilia Katame; Hon. (Dr.) Alexander Ejor, representing the Leader of Council, Hon. (Princess) Magdalene Ekpe; the Secretary of Council, Mr. Christian Lawrence Attah; the HOLGA, Dr. (Mrs.) Obal Esang; the DGSA, Mr. Francis Effiom; the DFS, Mrs. Patricia Njar; His Royal Majesty (Ophot) Agbor Ewa Ebani, represented by HRH Ntufam Paul Ntui; representatives of the Nigerian Army from TPK Nya Onoyom; Supervisors, Special Advisers, Personal Assistants, Directors, council staff, members of the political class, veterans, and other invited guests.
The ceremony concluded with a brief photo session and interaction with veterans, sealing a day marked by honour, gratitude, and remembrance. As echoed throughout the event, pro patria, the sacrifices of Nigeria’s heroes remain eternal, and their memory must never fade.
Photos Splash
