The Enugu State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting the families of fallen heroes, pledging assistance that goes beyond ceremonial observances.
Governor Peter Mbah gave the assurance on Thursday during wreath-laying ceremonies and a military parade at Okpara Square, Enugu, marking the conclusion of activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
Mbah said the state would continue to stand with members of the armed forces and their families, stressing that the responsibility of government extends beyond annual rituals.
According to him, the commitment of Enugu State would be reflected through practical care, advocacy, and collaboration with the Federal Government to ensure that serving and retired military personnel receive the respect and support they deserve.
“On this Day of Remembrance, we honour the families who carry their memory and recommit ourselves to the values for which they served-unity, discipline, service, and respect,” the governor said.
“The wreaths remind us to live as citizens worthy of their sacrifices. May their souls rest in peace, and may strength and comfort surround their families.”
He prayed that Nigeria would continue to be strengthened by the service, sacrifice, and professionalism of its armed forces.
Mbah praised the military for their sacrifices, noting that personnel have consistently answered the call to defend the nation and safeguard its security.
“From Monrovia to Freetown, Mogadishu to Darfur, Djerba, and the former Yugoslavia, our forces have served with distinction beyond our borders,” he said.
He added that their contributions to global peacekeeping missions have earned Nigeria international respect through professionalism and courage.
“At home, their duty remains demanding in the face of insurgency and banditry. Our armed forces continue to confront danger directly,” the governor stated.
Speaking on behalf of widows, Mrs Sarah Ugwuabonyi described life as challenging for families who lost their loved ones in service.
“This day brings sorrow because those who brought us into the barracks are no more. We thank God that they are remembered and that their sacrifices are not forgotten,” she said.
She commended Governor Mbah for honouring fallen heroes but appealed for increased support to ease the economic burden on widows.
“School fees and house rent are difficult. Government support through affordable housing would help us raise the children our husbands left behind,” Ugwuabonyi said.
She also urged the government to consider recruiting qualified widows into public service and empowering others with vocational skills, including trading and hairdressing.
Highlights of the event included wreath-laying by Governor Mbah, security chiefs, the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Uche Ugwu, and the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena. The ceremony also featured the symbolic release of pigeons.
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