by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Armed Forces Remembrance Day 2024 kicks-off in Jos, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang taking the lead in performing the laying of wreaths to commemorate the event.
It is a day specially dedicated to the Nigerian Military, who have been involved in many successful operations in the war against terrorism and insurgents in several parts of the nation and task of keeping the nation together in unity.
Marking the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Plateau State have been rounded-up with the laying of wreaths at the Joseph D. Gomwalk Secretariat cenotaph.
It is the significance of reflection on the sacrifices made by the military to unite and ensure peace in the country, which cannot be overemphasized. The event is being celebrated on 15th January every year in honour of veterans of World War I and II as well as the Nigerian Civil War. The event provides them with an opportunity to look back and reflect on Nigeria’s journey as a nation.
Our correspondent reports that, those who laid the wreaths were: Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang; Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan; Chief Judge of Plateau State, David Mann; General Officer Commanding 3rd Division, Nigeria Army-cum Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Gen. A.E. Abubakar; NAF Commander 551, AVM Usman Abdullahi; Commissioner of Police, Julius Okoro; the Chairman State Traditional Council-cum the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba; Chairman Nigeria Legion and Representative, and wives of Fallen Heroes.
Speaking in an interview with journalists shortly after the event, Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, restated his commitment to “championing improved welfare for both retired and active security personnel for effective service delivery.”
Governor Mutfwang underscored his administration’s unwavering commitment to providing essential support to enable serving officers to fulfill their constitutional duties amidst provocations from terrorist elements targeting innocent communities.
While applauding the professionalism of security officers, especially the General Officer Commanding 3rd Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN, Commander Major Gen. A.E. Abubakar, the governor stressed the need for “proactive approach” in identifying and addressing any issues among the ranks to ensure optimal service delivery.
According to him, “We will continue to honor our fallen heroes, who sacrificed for our nation’s security,” and seized the opportunity to convey condolences to the families of those who lost their lives or were injured in service.
Governor Mutfwang called on the people of Plateau State to support government initiatives aimed at restoring lasting peace.
Former Governor of the State, Sen. Jonah David Jang, speaking at the RHINO Officers Mess, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, equally lauded the efforts of serving officers in addressing the nation’s current security challenges.
He called for closer collaboration between serving and retired officers to contribute to the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities.
Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Plateau State, Col. CNC Sati B. Yilwat, expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for his intervention towards improving the living conditions of his members, and reassured the contribution of his members towards a peaceful and a united Plateau.