Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has appealed to corporate organisations and private citizens to support Nigeria’s armed forces through strategic partnerships and financial contributions aimed at enhancing their welfare and conditions of service.
The governor made the appeal on Thursday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Peace Park in Yenagoa, the state capital.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri paid glowing tributes to serving personnel, veterans and fallen heroes, describing their sacrifices as central to the preservation of Nigeria’s unity and territorial integrity. He noted that the annual remembrance event should reinforce national solidarity and appreciation for the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
According to him, the occasion is a reminder of the human cost of peace and security in the country.
His words: “On this day, and every day, let us ensure we do not forget those whose sacrifices have made peace and safety attainable. We know that behind every medal lies a story of sacrifice. Families who have lost breadwinners; veterans who have had their lives altered in their prime; and many who live with wounds, visible and invisible, that demand our practical compassion as much as our respect.
“The Armed Forces are the bedrock of national security. Without them, the very fabric of our country would be torn apart.
“I am therefore grateful to Mr. President, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, and to the senior military leadership for their unremitting efforts to improve conditions of service and the welfare of our gallant soldiers.
“Let me take this opportunity to call on corporate organisations and private individuals to lend their support to our armed forces. Through your contributions and judicious partnerships, we can ensure that those who hazard so much for our safety are neither overlooked nor forgotten.”
Governor Diri further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel, citing the recent completion and handover of residential accommodation to the Nigerian Army 16 Brigade in Elebele as evidence.
He also called on military authorities to collaborate with the Bayelsa State Government in agricultural initiatives to strengthen food security and create sustainable livelihoods.
“On Tuesday, I flagged off the dry farming season programme in the state. In that spirit, and following the model of the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited (NAFARL), I invite the Armed Forces leadership to partner with the Bayelsa State Government in large-scale agricultural endeavours that will bolster food security and promote sustainable livelihoods.”
The highlight of the ceremony was the laying of wreaths at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Those who performed the ritual included Governor Diri; the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Matilda Ayemieye; service commanders; and a representative of widows of fallen heroes, Mrs Christina Boroni.
Also laying wreaths were the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, and the Assistant Commandant General and Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Bayelsa State Council, Chief Baratuaipre Allison-Alanimi.
