Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their enduring sacrifices in preserving Nigeria’s unity, protecting its territorial integrity, and sustaining democratic governance.

Governor Otti made the commendation at the Major-General Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph in Umuahia during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an annual national event held to honour fallen heroes and celebrate the courage of serving military personnel.

The Governor noted that the 2026 observance was particularly significant as it marked the 60th anniversary of Nigeria’s first military coup, describing January 15 as a defining moment in the nation’s history.

“January 15 holds a special significance in the annals of our history.It was on this day, 60 years ago, that the first military coup took place , a long, sad night that left blood, tears and misery in its wake,” Governor Otti said.

He observed that the unfortunate events of January 15, 1966, abruptly terminated Nigeria’s First Republic and plunged the nation into years of military rule, the consequences of which, he noted, still reverberate in parts of the country’s political and social life.

Governor Otti further recalled that January 15 also marked the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970, a moment he described as symbolic of national reconciliation and renewed hope.

“It was on this day in 1970 that we came back together with a collective determination to put the miseries of the past behind us.Though our healing may not yet be complete, there is no dispute that Nigeria has made slow but steady progress in redefining herself beyond tribal and religious distortions,” he said.

Governor Otti noted that the Nigerian Armed Forces represent the practical ideals of Nigeria’s national dream, having evolved from the lessons of their early years into a professional and stable institution central to the preservation of democracy.

“We are gathered to celebrate the one institution that has not only played a major role in keeping us together, but has remarkably evolved into a stable force driving the preservation of our democratic structures, in addition to protecting our territorial integrity,” he stated.

He paid glowing tribute to officers and men who laid down their lives in defence of the nation, describing the Remembrance Day ceremony as a tribute to courage, honour, sacrifice and service to a higher cause

“This event offers us a special opportunity to express our collective gratitude to compatriots who chose to serve our nation in uniform , men and women for whom the fear of death means nothing if it serves a higher purpose,” Governor Otti said.

Governor Otti attributed the improved security situation in Abia State to sustained collaboration between the State Government and security agencies, noting that the State has transitioned from years of anxiety to becoming one of the safest destinations to live, work and travel.

“Abia has moved quickly from the anxiety of the last few years to assume a new identity as one of the safest destinations to live in and travel to. This could not have happened without the commitment of our partners in the various security establishments,” he said.

According to the Governor, the gains in security have translated into economic recovery and social stability, including the reactivation of previously dormant agricultural lands and other productive assets.

He commended the leadership of the various security agencies in the State for their “unyielding resolve” to the protection of lives and property in both urban and rural communities, assuring them of the continued support of his administration.

disclosed that the Abia State Government has made firm commitments to the welfare of families of deceased military, police and other security personnel.

He said spouses of fallen heroes have been provided with means of sustenance, while their children are being supported with scholarships up to tertiary level.

He also paid tribute to gallant personnel who lost their lives in active service in Abia State within the last year, assuring that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

Family members of fallen officers expressed appreciation to the government for its support. One widow, Mrs. Jane Doe, said the assistance had brought hope and stability to her family.

“The government is really taking care of us. They have provided financial support and promised to educate our children up to tertiary level,” she said.

Similarly, Mr. John Uche, father of a fallen officer, described the government’s intervention as a source of comfort in their time of grief.

Governor Otti used the occasion to call on Nigerians to reject violence, extremism and intolerance, urging citizens to embrace dialogue, mutual understanding and lessons from history.

“Violence should have no place in our society. While disagreements are inevitable, what will set us apart is our willingness to engage one another as members of the same national family, guided by justice, freedom and fairness,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to rise above incessant lamentations and instead rededicate themselves to nation-building, noting that the values of courage, honour, temperance and fortitude embodied by the Armed Forces are virtues that should guide everyday civic life.

The ceremony featured inspection of a guard of honour by Governor Otti, prayers for fallen heroes, laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the release of pigeons symbolising peace. The event was attended by top government officials, military and security personnel, organised labour leaders and families of fallen heroes.