The governor urged Nigerians to appreciate the Nigerian Armed Forces for the sacrifices they have rendered during the wars and in the internal security of the country.
AbdulRazaq made the plea in Ilorin, the state capital, where he joined other eminent people, heads of security agencies, and the Nigeria Legion to lay the wreath in honour of the fallen and serving men of the Armed Forces for their tremendous services to the country.
Speaking with reporters shortly after laying the wreath to celebrate the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the governor said, “The first and most important thing is to appreciate our Armed Forces for the sacrifices they have rendered, and still rendering, during the first and second world wars and internal security operations up till today.”
The governor also thanked the security agencies for their excellent roles in special operations in some parts of the state.
“They hardly sleep at night in the barracks, bushes, and offices. We have to appreciate them, and we equally appreciate their families for their tremendous roles and how they contribute generously to the efforts to rehabilitate some of them,” he added.
“In Kwara (in particular), we appreciate the Armed Forces. They are doing a yeoman’s job. We thank them for their services all over Nigeria to make the country safe and peaceful. Let us be united in Nigeria”, Abdulrazaq pleaded.
Other dignitaries who also laid the wreath at the event included the State Chief Judge Hon Justice Abiodun Adebara; heads of security agencies; representatives of the Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly and House Leader, Hon. Oba Magaji; representatives of the Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mary Arinde; and Commissioner for Social Development, Hon. Kemi Afolashade.
Others included the representative of the Emir of Ilorin, Sheikh AbdulRahman Kelani; Chairman of the Nigeria Legion Kwara state branch, retired Brigadier General Abdulkadir Anigiobi; Vice Chancellor University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole; Chief Medical Director University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) Professor Yusuf Abdullahi; and Hajia Ramat Sallaudeen, a widow of one of the fallen heroes.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an annual event marked on January 15 to commemorate the nation’s departed compatriots as well as to honour our living veterans.
