Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has described the Nigerian Armed Forces as the bedrock of the nation’s unity, security and stability, stressing that the welfare of serving and retired personnel must be given utmost priority.
Governor Diri made the call on Wednesday during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day ceremony held in Yenagoa, where he also acknowledged the sacrifices of officers and men of the armed forces in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He urged corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to complement government efforts by supporting the welfare of military personnel, noting that their wellbeing is directly linked to national prosperity and security.
“I am persuaded that the welfare of those who stand sentinel between us and danger is inextricably linked to our prosperity, morale and security,” the governor said.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, as well as the nation’s senior military leadership, for what he described as their sustained efforts to improve conditions of service and the welfare of troops.
“I am grateful to President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, and to the senior military leadership for their unrelenting efforts to improve conditions of service and the welfare of our gallant soldiers,” Diri added.
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The governor later led other dignitaries to lay wreaths at the cenotaph in honour of fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation.
The event was attended by the Senator representing Bayelsa East, Senator Benson Agadaga; Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye; and former Deputy Governor of the state, Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi.
Also present were the immediate past Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd); members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; members of the Nigerian Legion, Bayelsa State chapter; service commanders; serving and retired military officers; Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo; and other top government functionaries.
