2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day: Cross River Leaders Reflect on Sacrifice and Support

Stakeholders in Cross River State have emphasized the need to honour fallen military heroes and improve the welfare of veterans and their families as the state joined the rest of the nation to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.

By Victoria Omini 

Speaking shortly after the ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Cross River State described the event as a moment of deep reflection and gratitude to men and women who paid the supreme price for the unity and peace of Nigeria.

According to him, the ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes, many of whom gave their lives to ensure the country remains united. He noted that the peace enjoyed in the state is a result of the dedication and hard work of military personnel, stressing that the government remains committed to supporting the Nigerian military.

The Deputy Governor further stated that the welfare of widows of fallen heroes remains a priority of the state government. He disclosed that the Commissioner for Social Welfare has been directed to ensure that widows are carried along in all government programmes, adding that engagements with them had already taken place ahead of the ceremony.

However, concerns were raised over challenges faced by veterans and families of fallen heroes. These include delays in welfare benefits, lack of adequate medical care for veterans, and economic hardship faced by widows and children, including unemployment even after graduating from higher institutions. Despite these challenges, the Deputy Governor commended the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu for its consistent support to the Nigerian Legion, noting that the state government is making deliberate efforts to improve their situation.

Also speaking, the Mayor of Calabar, Apostle Rt Honourable James Annan, described the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as one of the most emotional events on the national calendar. He said the day provides an opportunity for Nigerians to remember those who laid down their lives in service to the nation and to pray for their families.

He noted that the establishment of January 15 as a day of remembrance reflects the nation’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by its fallen heroes. The mayor added that the welfare of families left behind should remain a collective responsibility, while praying for peace and comfort for bereaved families and eternal rest for the departed.

In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Women’s Youth Widows Association, Mrs Miriam Odoma Rock, expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Government for what she described as a positive change in the lives of widows since the emergence of Governor Otu.

She said members of the association are now able to return to their homes with renewed hope and care for their children, praying for God’s continued grace upon the leadership of the state to sustain its support for widows and vulnerable families.

The ceremony ended with prayers and wreath laying in honour of fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of Nigeria.