RismadarVoice Reporters
January 12, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen soldiers and veterans, describing their sacrifices as the foundation upon which the nation’s unity and peace are built.
The Governor spoke on Sunday, January 11, during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service held at Insight Bible Church, Uyo.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Governor Eno praised the gallantry, patriotism and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their role in safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in Akwa Ibom State and across the country.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of veterans and serving military personnel of Akwa Ibom origin, while pledging continued support to the families of fallen heroes.
“Today, we remember with deep gratitude and profound respect our brave men and women who paid the supreme price for us to live in peace. We also honour our veterans who have served the nation with distinction,” the governor said.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Etukudo, described the thanksgiving service as a moment of reflection on the sacrifices of fallen heroes, noting that their welfare remains a priority of government. She assured that the ministry would continue to implement social welfare programmes for widows and dependants of deceased servicemen.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Capt. Uwemedimo Bassey (Rtd.), pledged the Legion’s continued cooperation with the state government, while calling for improved welfare packages for legionnaires.
In his homily titled “Service Even Unto Death,” Pastor Dr. Obot Obot underscored the significance of Armed Forces Remembrance Day, noting that it honours both serving personnel and those who paid the ultimate price for Nigeria’s peace.
He urged Nigerians to pursue peace, serve with humility, and continually appreciate the Armed Forces, stressing that true service often demands sacrifice.
Highlights of the service included solemn hymns, intercessory prayers for Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State, its leaders and the Armed Forces, as well as a minute of silence in honour of the departed heroes.
The inter-denominational thanksgiving service forms part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, ahead of the ceremonial wreath-laying at the State Cenotaph in Uyo, scheduled for January 15, where Governor Eno will lead other dignitaries.
