Governor Allia Lays Wreath, Calls for Sustained Remembrance of Armed Forces

Governor Allia Lays Wreath, Calls for Sustained Remembrance of Armed Forces

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Thursday, 15th January 2026, joined heads of military and security formations in the state to lay wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at IBB Square, Makurdi, marking the climax of activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.

The solemn ceremony, held in honour of fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty, was observed under the theme of valor, sacrifice, and unity.

Governor Alia, while delivering his address, described the venue as “sacred ground,” noting that the occasion was more than a ceremonial ritual but a profound statement of collective remembrance.

“We are saying, as a people and as a state, that we remember. We are saying that the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of our heroes will never fade into silence,” the governor said.

He emphasized that while the wreath-laying marked the official close of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, the responsibility of remembrance must continue in the conscience of the people, public policies, and daily choices.

“To the families here today, your pain is not forgotten. Your loved ones did not die in vain; their names are written into the history of our state and our nation,” he assured.

The governor called on the people of Benue to embrace unity, stressing that the fallen heroes came from diverse backgrounds, faiths, and communities but stood as one in service to the nation, urging citizens to reject division, choose dialogue over violence, and place collective interest above narrow considerations.

Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving personnel, veterans, and families of fallen heroes, noting that remembrance must be matched with responsibility and concrete action.

Addressing young people, the Governor reminded them that freedom comes at a cost and must be preserved through discipline, service, and love for the country.

“As we lay this wreath, we bow our heads not in defeat, but in gratitude—for lives well lived, for duty faithfully discharged, and for a legacy that calls us to be better,” he added.

Speaking with journalists after the ceremony, Governor Alia described the day as a “sobering and unique moment” for both the nation and Benue State, adding that the celebration honoured both those currently serving and those who voluntarily laid down their lives to safeguard Nigeria’s freedom and sovereignty.

He noted that Benue State, which had previously made headlines due to insecurity, has witnessed relative calm, attributing it to divine intervention, federal government support, and the resilience of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the commitment of security agencies operating in the state.

The governor disclosed that the state government has made significant inroads in supporting retired personnel, widows, widowers, and children of fallen heroes. According to him, scholarships have been awarded to children of fallen heroes, while empowerment programmes and small business support have been extended to widows and widowers.

He added that plans are also in place to address medical challenges faced by aged retirees, with the Office of the Director General, Homeland Security, Col. Gbamwuan (rtd), designated to coordinate interventions.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Benue State, Commander James Gbakon, said retired soldiers are strategically positioned across communities and can play a vital role in grassroots security if properly engaged and empowered.

The ceremony featured the inspection of a Guard of Honour by Governor Alia, special interdenominational prayers by Christian and Muslim clerics for the Armed Forces, a twenty-one gunshot salute, and the release of pigeons to symbolise peace in the state.

A free medical outreach for members of the public was also conducted as part of the event.