Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, represented by his Deputy, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, yesterday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, with a call for sustained and structured support for military veterans in recognition of their sacrifices to the nation.
Speaking at the event, Barr. Ossai, expressed the gratitude of the Enugu State Government to members of the Nigerian Legion, describing their sacrifices as central to the survival of Nigeria’s democracy, unity, and national integrity.
“It is important that we express how we feel about your selfless sacrifices that secure our democracy, strengthen our ability, and above all protect our integrity, ensuring that each and every one of us is able to explore and exploit our God-given talents,” Barr. Ossai said.
The Deputy Governor also noted that while the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day provides an opportunity for commemoration and donations, a more meaningful impact would be achieved through a sustainable and organised framework of engagement between government and veterans.
“Veterans’ Day should go beyond commemoration. A sustainable relationship, built through an organised structure, will make more meaning. I urge you to put together a programme, engage our office and the government, and develop a protocol of engagement on how we can work together meaningfully and sustainably for those who served,” he stated.
Barr. Ossai highlighted the ongoing development initiatives of the Mbah administration, stressing that Enugu State’s aggressive investment in infrastructure, agriculture, education, and healthcare presents opportunities for partnerships that can also benefit military veterans.
He cited the state’s agricultural mechanisation drive, including the assembly of over 800 tractors, the establishment of farm estates in every political ward, extensive road construction, as well as the building of 260 Smart Schools and 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state.
“In a state undergoing this level of transformation, I am confident that with proper engagement and inward-looking collaboration, we can develop partnerships that will be beneficial to veterans and to the people of Enugu State as a whole,” he added.
According to the Deputy Governor, the emblem launch was not merely about fundraising but about formally acknowledging the sacrifices of men and women who willingly laid down their lives in service to the nation.
“Today is not just about donations; it is about acknowledging sacrifices rooted in the personal willingness to lay down one’s life for the rest of us,” he said.
The launch of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem marks the beginning of activities leading to the annual remembrance ceremony, dedicated to honouring fallen heroes and supporting serving and retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
