As part of activities marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia on Wednesday, joined heads of military formations in the state to perform the laying of wreaths at the tomb of the unknown soldier.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony which was held at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Square Makurdi, Governor Alia noted the contributions of men and officers of the Armed Forces towards protecting lives and property.
He further stressed the need for Nigeria to remain as one indivisible entity as a mark of honor to members of the Armed Forces who paid the ultimate prize by giving up their lives in defense of the peace and territorial integrity of the nation.
Governor Alia who used the ceremony to honor the memories of the fallen heroes that died in the line of duty, appreciated the Nigeria Armed Forces for the work they do even as he called for support for the families they left behind.
During the ceremony, the Governor inspected the Guard Of Honor while special prayers were offered by Christian and Muslim clerics for the Armed Forces.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the twenty one gun shot salutes and release of pigeons to signify peace in the state.
The event was witnessed by key government functionaries including the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. Sam Ode, the Tor-Tiv, Prof James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Och’Idoma, Dr. John Elaigwu Odogbo, members of Legion of Ex-Servicemen as well as members of the Military Widows Association among others.
Recall that, as part of activities marking this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, an Interdenominational Service was organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in conjunction with the Benue State Government and held at First Baptist Church, Lobi Quarters Makurdi on Sunday, 12th January, 2025.
