Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem appeal fund, urging Nigerians to reflect on the significance of the occasion by honouring the bravery and supreme sacrifices paid by the fallen heroes.
Governor Oyebanji who launched the emblem at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Governor’s office on Thursday to mark the commencement of activities for the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, reiterated the commitment of his administration to supporting the welfare of the retired and serving personnel within the ambit of available resources through collaboration with the Nigerian Legion and other relevant bodies to ensure Improved support systems, empowerment opportunities, and programmes that restore dignity and hope to the veterans.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, called on Nigerians to recognize the need to embrace peace and tranquillity, exhibit love towards one another and encourage progressiveness rather than violence stressing that everyone has a duty to secure the society by joining efforts with the gallant soldiers and other security personnel for a peaceful society.
“As a government, it is our duty to prioritize security in order to make the society a safe environment. I must let you know that efforts had been made to improve the security operations in Ekiti State and more importantly in collaboration with other South Western States to create a more coordinated, tech-savvy and community supported security architecture (Amotekun Corps) in the overall interest of our people. Our plan is to secure the entire region and sustain same with modern technology to alert the States as well as support the security personnel in their onerous assignments.
“Let me use this medium to commend our President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who work tirelessly amidst all challenges to ensure a safe and stable Nigeria.
The Governor, who launched the emblem with a sum of five million Naira used the opportunity to enlighten citizens that the emblem launch was meant to raise funds for the veterans to alleviate some of the pains and challenges being confronted in their daily lives as he also encouraged residents to donate handsomely and contribute generously to support the veterans, their widows and serving troops.
“I also call on every citizen- public servants, corporate bodies, traditional rulers, religious institutions, schools, unions, and community groups-to actively support this emblem appeal. Let us give generously. Let us participate wholeheartedly. Let us show our servicemen and women that their sacrifices are not forgotten and will never be forgotten.
“As we launch this emblem, let it be a visible pledge of remembrance. Let it be a symbol of unity that transcends tribe, religion, and geography. Let it remind us that freedom is not free, that peace is not accidental, and that the stability we enjoy today was purchased by the bravery of our armed forces, we all owe a debt that can never be fully repaid to our fallen heroes But we can honour them, support their families, stand with the veterans who once stood for us and we can build a nation worthy of their sacrifices”, The Governor stated.
Earlier, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi described the occasion as avenue designed to remember, celebrate and honour the patriotic service of military personnel who dedicated their lives to defend the sovereignty of the country and the world at large through the civil wars, peace keeping missions across the globe, and other statutory duties.
Dr Olomojobi thanked Governor Oyebanji Governor for his giant strides across all sectors of the State especially in providing an enabling environment of peace, security, and good governance that allows everyone to peacefully and fittingly celebrate and honours our fallen war heroes adding that his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving and retired military personnel, as well as other security agencies, is worthy of special note and commendation.
The Head of Service further commended everyone at the event and urged them not forget the historical trajectory of Nigeria as it propels the people to continue to resist all forms of insurgencies and the need to maintain and sustain peaceful co-existence in their environment. She added “We all must sacrifice, remain committed to the growth of our state and ensure we promote unity and brotherly love rather than embracing any act capable of truncating the peace our state and Nation.
The Chairman, Nigerian Legion in Ekiti state, Mr Atoki abdurazak thanked God for giving their members a Governor like Mr Biodun Oyebanji who has been a pillar of support for the Legion in Ekiti praying to God to continue to protect and uplift him politically, spiritually with the promise that members of the legion are solidly behind the Governor.
The ceremony was also attended by the representative of the Speaker and the Chief judge as well as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd.), members of the state executive council, Service Chiefs, Chairman, Ekiti state Council of traditional rulers, Oba Adu Alagbado, labour leaders and members of the legion among others.
