President Buhari being decorated by Chairman Nigerian Legion Brig. Gen. Adakole Akpa Rtd as he participates at the Emblem
Appeal Launch for 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in State House on 31st Oct 2018
President Muhammadu Buhari, Wednesday, in Abuja launched the 2019
Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration Emblem with an appeal to
political actors to be decorous in their conduct and utterances in order
not to fan the embers of disunity.
The President launched the emblem and appeal fund for the support
of Nigerian veterans and fallen heroes with N10 million, before the
commencement of the Federal Executive Council.
‘‘We would have no country to lead if our acts of deliberate
incitement lead to the disintegration of our dear nation,’’ the
President said in his address at the Council Chambers.
‘‘Let us put Nigeria first and realise that in every contest there must be one winner,’’ he added.
President Buhari reminded the nation that the celebration was a
painful reminder of the perils of war and the need for the nation to
avoid a recurrence.
‘‘The celebration forcefully reminds us of the resolve of our citizens to remain in one united country, Nigeria.
‘‘It also points out the fact that we had been through a bitter
and unfortunate war that led to the loss of millions of our compatriots
and the need to do all within our powers to avoid a reoccurrence of
war,’’ he said.
President Buhari also used the occasion to appreciate the gallantry
and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the campaign against
insurgency and other internal security operations.
Noting that the efforts of the armed forces have led to the return
of normalcy in affected parts of the nation, the President regretted the
recent murder of two young and promising aid workers; Saifura Khorsa
and Hauwa Liman by Boko Haram terrorists.
‘‘It is painful that this happened despite all the efforts of government to effect release of the two victims.
‘‘We condemn the callous and cowardly act in its entirety and
call on all citizens and friends to forge a united front against this
common enemy of our destiny.
‘‘Once more, I extend the heartfelt condolences of the
Government and people of Nigeria to the families and friends of these
martyrs,’’ the President said.
The Nigerian leader pledged that the resettlement and
rehabilitation of citizens affected by the war on terror will continue,
commending Dangote Foundation for its partnership with Government in the
rebuilding process in Borno State.
The President, therefore, called on other corporate organisations
to borrow a leaf from this noble initiative as Government alone cannot
satisfy all the needs, given her limited resources.
President Buhari also expressed delight that businesses operating
in Nigeria are beginning to give special consideration to members of the
Armed Forces and veterans.
‘‘Specifically, some airlines operating in Nigeria offer
discounts to members of the Armed Forces. This gesture is commendable
and in line with my call for recognition, consideration and appreciation
of our Armed Forces.
‘‘I urge more business ventures to chip in by assisting the Security Forces in whatever way they can,’’ he said.
The President also thanked charity organisations for taking up the
task of catering for the welfare of veterans and members of the armed
forces, adding that the nation owe a debt of gratitude to men and women
of the armed forces who have the responsibility of securing the Nation,
and ensuring a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
On the Bill to amend the Nigerian Legion Act to a proposed
“Veterans Federation of Nigeria” Act, the President urged the 8th
National Assembly to give the proposed legislation, which seeks to
ensure proper welfare and health condition of military veterans, quick
attention.
‘‘As Grand Patron of the Nigerian Legion (Veterans), I wish to
pledge my continued support and that of the Federal Government to the
organisation.
‘‘My appreciation goes to State Governors who are patrons in
their respective states for the support they are giving to the Legion. I
enjoin them not to relent but improve on this,’’ he said.
President Buhari called on all Nigerians and others resident in
Nigeria to procure and wear the emblems with pride to identify with
those who laid down their lives for peace and security of our
fatherland.
The President was accompanied to the event by Vice President Yemi
Osinbajo, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara,
members of the Federal Executive Council, Chief of Defence Staff,
General Abayomi Olonisakin, service chiefs and the Inspector General of
Police, Ibrahim Idris, senior officers and veterans.