The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen soldiers, describing their ultimate sacrifice as the bedrock of the nation’s unity, democracy and steady march towards progress.
Marking this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Yilwatda said the price paid by men and women of the military was neither distant nor symbolic, but deeply personal, noting that many gave up their lives, ambitions and families to keep the country united, secure and free.
In a statement shared on his official X handle on Thursday, the APC chairman honoured personnel who died in active combat, peacekeeping assignments and ongoing operations to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, stressing that their courage continues to resonate in the peace and stability the nation strives to protect.
He also expressed solidarity with wounded soldiers, veterans living with the scars of service and families of the fallen, who, he said, carry a mix of pride and profound loss.
Yilwatda maintained that Nigeria must continually recognise that its democratic journey and national development are anchored on the selflessness and bravery of its armed forces.
“Today, we pause as a nation to remember and salute the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who laid down their lives in defence of Nigeria,” he said. “Their sacrifices were not abstract; they were personal. They left behind families, dreams and futures so that our country could stand united, safe and free.”
He added that although many soldiers never returned home, their heroism lives on in the nation-building efforts and the relative peace Nigerians seek to sustain.
Calling on citizens to draw inspiration from the fallen heroes, the APC chairman urged greater patriotism, unity and collective commitment to building a stronger and more secure Nigeria.
He also prayed for the repose of the souls of departed soldiers, describing their lives as enduring reminders that nationhood is sustained through sacrifice, duty and love for country.
