Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called for improved welfare for officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces in recognition of their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s unity and security.
Governor Diri made the call on Sunday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day interdenominational service held at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa. He stressed that both serving and retired military personnel deserve better care and support during and after their years of service to the country.
The governor expressed concern over the harsh conditions faced by many retired military officers while attempting to access their pensions and retirement benefits, noting that some have reportedly died in the process. He described the situation as unacceptable, given the risks and sacrifices associated with military service.
Recalling the recent death of a former classmate who was a retired military officer, Diri said the incident underscored the urgent need for improved welfare packages for members of the armed forces. He, however, noted that the situation was gradually improving under the current Federal Government, while calling for sustained and greater commitment by all tiers of government and Nigerians at large.
The governor also urged Nigerians to desist from habitual criticism of the military and government on social media, stressing that the armed forces deserve commendation rather than condemnation for their selfless service to the nation.
“The welfare of the military ought to be prioritised. Without the military, there is no country,” Diri said. “While we sleep, they are busy working to keep us safe. It is sad that some of them, after retirement, still suffer to access their entitlements. We need to honour them better.”
He further called for discipline, orderliness and respect for the rule of law in the country, describing these as essential to national progress. Governor Diri also appealed to serving military and police officers to remain diligent and professional in the discharge of their duties in order to uphold the integrity of their respective institutions.
READ ALSO: 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗶 𝗢𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 t𝗼 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸
In a sermon during the service, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion, Rev. Godspower Asingba, urged Nigerians to continually pray for and encourage the military, noting that personnel operate under harsh conditions and often struggle to secure a better life.
The event was attended by the governor’s wife, Justice Patience Diri; the senator representing Bayelsa Central, Dr. Konbowei Benson; member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Dr. Fred Agbedi; Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Matilda Ayemieye; and other state legislators.
Also present were former deputy governors, Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi and Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd); the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; members of the State Executive Council; service commanders; as well as serving and retired military officers.
