We Owe The Armed Forces Gratitude For Defending The Nation—Gov. Obiano

By Emeka Ozumba

The Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has said that Nigerians and indeed Ndi Anambra owe the Armed Forces gratitude for their commitment to the protection and defense of the country.

The governor stated this at the Eucharistic Service for 2016 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration held at the St. Patricks Cathedral Awka, Anambra State.

The governor who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Professor Joe Asike, said that every patriotic Nigerian is indebted to the Armed Forces for the supreme sacrifices they have made to preserve the country.

Said he: “We cannot quantify the sacrifices the Armed Forces make daily for the sake of peace. The peace we enjoy in our state today is as a result of the efforts of men and women of the armed forces and the ultimate sacrifice they are willing to make to protect Nigeria. We should all be grateful to them.”

Earlier in his Homily, Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Peter Okpalaleke described the Armed Forces Remembrance Day as a significant day for the Army and all branches of the force because it is a day to remember those colleagues who lost their lives while trying to protect the nation and make it safe for the living.

The Bishop noted that the Armed Forces personnel were not pursuing personal greatness but rather they are working hard for the greatness of Nigeria. According to him, “They left their wives and children for the safety of the nation. It therefore is important that every member of the armed forces should see their mission as a way of drawing closer to God.”

Bishop Okpalaeke called for prayers by all in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the fight to protect the nation, and also the living as we struggle to keep the country safe.

The Mass was attended by senior officers of the armed forces including the Anambra State, Commissioner of Police, Hosea Karma. Also in attendance were representatives of the Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly and the Chief Judge and Head of Service, Prince Harry Uduh amongst other dignitaries.