As we commemorate Armed Forces Remembrance Day today, it is important that we take time to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed on 15 January every year to commemorate the servicemen and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It also honors veterans of World War I and II as well as the Nigerian Civil War.
It is instructive to note that being a former British colony, Remembrance Day was formerly celebrated on 11 November as Poppy Day in honor of the end of the First World War. Upon the government’s victory against Biafran troops on 15 January 1970, the holiday was moved off the calendar of the Commonwealth of Nations and was changed to 15 January in commemoration of the conclusion of the Nigerian Civil War.
For decades, our troops have put their lives on the line to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect its citizens, and enable peace and stability. Their selfless service and courage in the face of danger continue to inspire gratitude and respect across our nation.
In particular, we must remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. The dangers faced by our troops are all too real, as evidenced by the lives lost while carrying out operations against insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s security.
Our thoughts go out to the families, friends and communities grieving the loss of our fallen heroes. Their sacrifice allows the rest of us to live in safety and pursue our hopes for the future. We owe them an eternal debt of honour.
As we mark this solemn occasion, it is also essential that we support the living veterans and service members who carry on the task of defending Nigeria today.
Sadly, over 33 states across Nigeria are currently experiencing military operations and exercises in response to rising insecurity.
Our troops are working tirelessly on the frontlines to counter threats from terrorism, insurgency, banditry, oil theft and other crimes.
It is gratifying to note that much progress has been made. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has stated troops killed 6,886 terrorists and other criminal elements, arrested 6,970 suspects and rescued 4,488 kidnapped hostages from January to December 2023.
Also, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla,stated the Nigerian Navy between January and December 2023 arrested 23 vessels, 232 suspected oil thieves and destroyed 703 illegal refining sites.
He said the Navy also arrested five barges, 690 Cotonou boats laden with stolen crude, 116 speed boats as well as 82 vehicles and trucks.
In the considered opinion of this newspaper, significant challenges still remain.
The recent killings of close to 200 persons in Plateau and the rise of banditry in Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara , and Niger states is a serious concern.
Indeed, we must ensure our troops have the resources, training, intelligence and equipment needed to overcome adversaries who often possess advanced weaponry and technology.
Care must also be taken to safeguard troops’ welfare, provide adequate healthcare and transition support, and attend to the needs of military families.
Veterans who have returned from service must have access to education, housing and employment opportunities that honor their contributions.
Needless to say, while the military has taken strong action to curb insecurity, the optimal solution involves strengthening civilian law enforcement and governance as well.
The military has been forced to undertake internal security tasks beyond its remit due to police shortcomings.
Going forward, efforts must be made to boost policing capabilities, roll back corruption, alleviate poverty and unemployment, and address grievances that foster criminality and extremism.
Proper resourcing and training of state security agencies will enable the military to focus on its primary mandate of defending Nigeria against external aggression.
On this 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, let us unite as citizens and leaders in appreciating the service and sacrifice of our troops and veterans. We must care for those wounded in body and spirit, and support the families of those killed in action.
And we must work collectively to build a just, prosperous and peaceful society that honors those who gave their lives for Nigeria’s ideals. The nation owes its military a debt of gratitude, and this solemn day of remembrance must rekindle our commitment to upholding the values they fought to defend.
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