Governor, State of Osun, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola has again advocated for peace and unity among the people of Nigeria, Africa and the Global space at large.
He stated this at the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Wreath Laying Ceremony held at the New Military Cenotaph in Osogbo on Tuesday.
The governor said, the celebration is a commemoration and an appreciation of the sacrifice of the veterans and gallant soldiers, at personal and family costs, to keep the world and especially the country together.
He stated that from the First World War through the Second World War, the Civil War, the Support Operations across the world to Internal Security Operations, these gallant soldiers demonstrated uncommon courage and paid the supreme price so that the world can enjoy peace, stressing that It is therefore apposite that the people of Nigeria reciprocate this gesture by appreciating them and taking care of their loved ones.
He continued: “January 15 every year is symbolic to our nation. It marks the end of Civil War, thus prompting the nation to decide to live together in peace and unity. The symbolism of this Day necessitated the decision by the Federal Government to commemorate the day on 15th January as against the 11th November by other Commonwealth nations.
“I would like to appreciate the thinking behind the annual commemoration and remembrance of our fallen and gallant heroes, who surrendered their comfort and lives so that we can keep ours.
“It is a testament to the deep appreciation and high esteem that we, as civilians and the living, hold the sacrifice of our gallant soldiers and proof that this is not in vain”.
The state helmsman who placed on record the appreciation of the government and people of the state to the Nigerian Armed Forces for their loyalty to the nation, appealed to the citizenry to remember that the best honour that can be given to the fallen and living heroes is to resolve to live together in peace and unity as a people.
He said now is the time to realise that we despise our fallen heroes when we forment crises, kill one another and tear the nation apart, stressing that the Nigerian people must set apart sentiments, say no to hate speeches and seek peace, saying “now is the time for our corporate organisations and philanthropists to pull resources together for those who laid down their lives so that the people of Nigeria can enjoy life and do profitable businesses”.
Governor Oyetola who maintained that the State of Osun is noted for giving priority to the welfare of service men and women, added that his administration will contribute to the Federal Government’s Partnership Scheme for the Armed Forces and improve on the state’s contributions to the welfare of the Nigerian Legion, the servicemen and women and the families of the fallen heroes within the limits of available resources.
He assured the officers and men of the forces that Nigerians appreciate their services to their fatherland, enjoining them to be rest assured that as they go out in defence of the nation, they are not alone, they carry with them the prayers and goodwill of their compatriots.
Highpoint of the event was the laying of wreath which was kick started by Governor Oyetola; the Commander, Engineering Construction Command, Ede, Brigadier General E. Erewa; Wing Commander, 209 Quick Response Group, Ipetu-Ijesha, Wing Commander K.O Akinyosade; the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fimihan Adeoye; the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun and the State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Comrade Oladimeji Olalere among others.
