The President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, delivered a powerful message at the Interdenominational Church Service commemorating the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He emphasized that the sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have sowed the seeds of unity and progress for the nation, akin to the significance of martyrs in Christianity.
Akpabio declared, “The blood of these courageous countrymen and women is and continues to be the seed of our unity and progress as a nation. It is our solemn duty to ensure that they did not die in vain by promoting the peace and unity of Nigeria.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s diverse population with people of various faiths, Akpabio highlighted the deep-rooted belief in God and the power of prayers as a unifying factor. He emphasized the resilience and unity that define Nigerians, transcending diversity in culture, religion, and tribe, acknowledging that such unity came at a great price.
Furthermore, Akpabio urged Nigerians to prioritize national unity over selfish and sectional interests, advocating for peaceful coexistence and emphasizing the destructive nature of war. He also reassured the public of the government’s commitment to implementing reforms necessary for national advancement.
In a call for collaboration, Akpabio urged the church to partner with the government in promoting messages of tolerance, peace, unity, and progress to bridge ethnic and religious divides. His words resonated with the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, who appealed for nationwide support to bolster the military’s efforts in restoring peace across the country.
The poignant sermon titled “Hope of a New Dawn” delivered by Archbishop Peter Ogumiyiwa commended the sacrifices of the Nigerian military in upholding peace and supporting democratic governance. He also stressed the importance of combating corruption and insecurity, urging a unified effort devoid of regional, ethnic, and religious biases.
The interdenominational church service held as part of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations serves as a testament to Nigeria’s reverence for its fallen heroes and the concerted commitment to national unity and progress.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, signifies the end of the Nigerian civil war and stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the peace and unity of Nigeria.
The service encapsulated not only a solemn remembrance but also a resounding call for unity, peace, and progress, signifying a collective pledge to honor the fallen heroes by upholding the unity and progress of Nigeria.
