Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded the patriotism of officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces, saying their commitment to protection of the country’s territorial integrity and unity had saved Nigeria from breaking up.

Mr Oyebanji said this on Wednesday at the programme to commemorate the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti.

The governor said that it was in recognition of this onerous duty that his government donated the sum of N10 million to support the veterans.

Mr Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Monisade Afuye, said that if not for the efficiency of the Nigerian military, the country could have been plunged into anarchy arising from activities of insurgents, bandits, and kidnappers.

He thanked the military for partnering with other security agencies to make Ekiti safe for habitation and investment.

Mr Oyebanji commended the fallen heroes for their sacrifice and prayed for God’s protection over soldiers on the battlefields, those fighting insurgents, and maintaining security in different parts of the country.

He said, “As we reflect on the sacrificial patriotism displayed by the fallen heroes, we must acknowledge the continuing challenge of insecurity that still confronts us as a nation, calling for unity, cooperation, and solidarity.’’

The governor assured that he would ramp up efforts to make lives more abundant for the servicemen, war veterans, and other Ekiti residents.

The event featured the laying of wreaths by the governor, Speaker of the Ekiti Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, and the representative of the 32 Artillery Brigade Commander, Maj.- Gen. Imam Babakura.

Others who laid wreaths were the Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe.

(NAN)