Tinubu, Army chiefs, others pay tribute to fallen heroes

President Bola Tinubu, alongside other dignitaries, participated in the wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Abuja.

The Chief of Defense Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, led all service chiefs and heads of various security agencies in joining the annual ceremony designed to pay tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes.

Apart from the wreath-laying, the event featured additional solemn activities, including prayers, gun salutes, and the symbolic release of pigeons at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja.

President Bola Tinubu specifically conducted the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as part of the solemn observance of Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

During the ceremony, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), said the most fitting tribute to the Armed Forces of Nigeria members who sacrificed their lives in defense of the nation is to persist in coordinated air, ground, and maritime operations against terrorists, insurgents, economic saboteurs, and other non-state actors.

Commending the Air Component Commanders across various joint theaters of operation for their successful air strikes in the early months of 2024, CAS Abubakar, in preparation for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, underscored the significance of sustaining efforts to ensure peace and security nationwide.

Highlighting a recent success on January 13, 2024, with air interdiction strikes near Lake Chad by Operation Hadin Kai at Tumbunma Baba, which resulted in the elimination of several terrorists and the destruction of their vehicles and structures, the CAS called for intensification of the ongoing commitment to restoring peace.

Acknowledging that the nation can never fully repay the fallen heroes, Air Marshal Abubakar maintained that there was an obligation to continue endeavors aimed at bringing peace and tranquility to all regions.

He was of the view that the dedication and commitment of the fallen heroes must inspire sustained efforts to return the country to its peaceful past.

Asserting that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has provided the necessary resources for success, CAS Abubakar urged the armed forces to fulfill their mandate and maintain operational momentum.

He underscored the importance of instilling confidence in citizens to pursue their daily activities without fear.

The Chief of Army Staff called on Nigerians to express gratitude, goodwill, solidarity, and unwavering prayers for the fallen heroes and their families, emphasizing the collective responsibility to honor and remember their sacrifice.