Oyo State Governor; His Excellency Engineer Seyi Makinde FNSE GSSRS, on Sunday paid tribute to fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of the nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.
The Governor who spoke through his Chief of Staff,Otunba(Hon) Segun Ogunwuyi at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Church Service held at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan.
“The freedoms we enjoy today were secured by brave men and women who chose duty, discipline, and selfless service over personal comfort,” Makinde stated.
The governor noted that his administration ensured strong Government representation at the service in recognition of the vital role of the Church, the Body of Christ in nation-building, peace, and moral guidance.
Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, assuring residents that the Oyo State Government would continue to collaborate with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to ensure peace, stability, and safety of lives and properties of the citizenry across the state.
“Security remains central to our vision of creating an environment where lives are protected, communities thrive, and development can flourish,” His Excellency said, while urging Nigerians never to forget the sacrifices made for the country’s survival.
He also formally acknowledged senior military officers, including the General Officer Commanding, Service Commanders, members of the Nigeria Police, and the State Security Council.
Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding 2nd Division, Nigerian Army, also praised the dedication of officers and soldiers, highlighting the sacrifices made daily in operational areas.
“Even as a General Officer Commanding, I have slept in operational areas, often in camps and temporary shelters, all in the line of duty,” he said, emphasizing the commitment of the Army, Police, Air Force, Civil Defense, and other uniformed services.
Nnebeife extended gratitude to the Governor of Oyo State for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces and underscored the responsibility of caring for families of fallen heroes.
He also acknowledged the role of military wives, saying: “To our wives who maintain the home front and continually pray for us, we are deeply grateful. We appreciate every one of you.”
He urged the pastors, members of the church to keep praying for the Armed Forces.
During the service, the Provost, Samuel Kayode, in his sermon, called on everyone including politicians, members of the armed forces, and citizens to use their talents, gifts, and positions of influence for the benefit of others.
Quoting Hebrews 12:2, he reminded the congregation that Jesus “endured the cross for the joy set before Him” and left a ministry of service, healing, and support for all to continue.
Provost Kayode emphasized that it is not titles or positions that define a person, but the character and positive impact they demonstrate in the lives of others.
He urged leaders and individuals alike to reflect on how they use the authority and resources entrusted to them. While Jesus used His gifts and anointing to uplift and bless, many today misuse their positions for selfish purposes or oppression.
He challenged everyone; fathers, leaders, politicians, armed forces personnel, and citizens to serve, protect, and uplift others, reminding them that true fulfillment comes from using one’s abilities to make a positive difference, just as Jesus did.
Earlier, members of the Armed Forces, Chiefs of Staff, and Government Officers were called forward for a special prayer honoring fallen heroes and seeking strength for living personnel.
Dignitaries at the service include; the Chief of Staff to His Excellency Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, the General Officer Commanding 2nd Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife;several Commissioners some of which include ; Justice & Attorney General; Barr Biodun Aikomo, Agriculture; Barrister Olaleye the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs :Hon Comforter Olajide,the PS of the Ministry : Dr Mrs Ibitoye & Directors of the Ministry,Board Chairmen some of which include; Educational Institutions, Youth Agency, Primary Healthcare Development Agency; Hon Babatunde Olaniyan, Hon Awoleye & Hon Prince Adebowale respectively,the Anglican Bishop of Ibadan North, Most Reverend Williams O. Oladekungbe, represented by the Cathedral Administrator, Reverend Samuel; Air Commander of the 655 Nigerian Air Force Base, Air Commander D.U. Njoku; the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, C.P. Femi Haruna; other government officials, senior and retired officers; the Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Wives Association, Mrs. Nelson; and numerous political appointees among others graced the occasion.
Alhaja Aminat Busari-Adeleke
INFORMATION OFFICER MINISTRY OF WOMEN AFFAIRS & SOCIAL INCLUSION
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