January 15, a date etched in the nationโs consciousness as Armed Forces Remembrance Day, was solemnly observed by the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, appointees, staff of the council and the public, at the council secretariat in Akamkpa. The occasion provided a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in defence of the nationโs unity and sovereignty.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Akposi underscored the significance of the day, describing it as both โsolemn and thought-provoking.โ He paid glowing tributes to the gallant men and women who laid down their lives in service to the nation, while also acknowledging the living heroes who continue to bear the scars of battles fought for Nigeriaโs stability. โThe struggles of our nationhood are storied and complex,โ he noted, citing pivotal moments in history, including the Nigerian civil war, the fight against Boko Haram insurgency, Niger Delta militancy, and external engagements like the Bakassi Peninsula dispute.
In his remarks, the Chairman commended the federal and state governments for recognising the valour of fallen heroes through annual commemorations. He called for sustained prayers, respect, and support for the Armed Forces, emphasising that their sacrifices demand reciprocal acts of goodwill. Hon. Akposi further encouraged well-meaning individuals and organisations to lend their support to the Nigerian Legion and bereaved families, asserting that โno sacrifice is too great compared to their ultimate price for unity.โ
Highlighting the Armed Forcesโ contributions beyond Nigeriaโs borders, Hon. Akposi spoke of their commendable roles in peacekeeping missions across Africa under ECOMOG and other initiatives, which have significantly enhanced the nationโs standing on the global stage.
As a gesture of solidarity, Hon. Akposi made a handsome donation to the Nigerian Legion, reinforcing his administrationโs commitment to the welfare of the retired servicemen and their dependents. His appeal for collective responsibility resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom pledged their support for this noble cause.
Warrant Officer Richard Ekpe (Rtd), the leader of the Nigerian Legion, Akamkpa Branch, in his address, expressed gratitude to the council for its unwavering support and goodwill. Reflecting on his service years and the plight of retired personnel, he called for consistent assistance to those grappling with post-traumatic stress and other war-related adversities. โOur heroes deserve more than mere remembrance; they need tangible acts of compassion and support,โ he stated.
The ceremony reached its peak with the symbolic laying of wreaths by dignitaries, including the Chairman, top military and paramilitary officials, and representatives of civil society groups. A highlight of the event was the spirited parade by the Legion, evoking nostalgia and earning applause from the audience.
The commemoration drew a broad spectrum of attendees, including the Vice Chairman of Council, Secretary to the Local Government, Heads of Local Government Administration, the Divisional Police Officer, traditional rulers, political appointees, and representatives from civil society and religious organisations. Their presence underscored a shared commitment to honouring the Armed Forcesโ sacrifices and preserving their legacy.
As the day ended, Hon. Akposiโs heartfelt message reverberated: โOur unity as a nation is priceless, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold it by honouring those who paid the ultimate price.โ
