Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, has called on Nigerians to honor the memory of fallen heroes by committing to national unity and active citizenship.
Speaking at the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Thanksgiving Service at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Asaba, on Sunday, the Governor described the peace enjoyed in Delta State as a direct result of the professionalism and ultimate price paid by security personnel.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D, used the solemn occasion to reassure the families of deceased servicemen and women that Government remains a partner in their wellbeing.
“I give thanks to Almighty God for life, peace and the privilege to gather on this solemn occasion, the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Thanksgiving Service.
“Today, we honour our gallant heroes who paid the ultimate price for Nigeria’s unity and freedom, including those who continue to serve with courage and sacrifice.
“We also remember their families, whose pain and sacrifices, remain part of our nation’s story.
“To those family members of the fallen heroes, please note that your loved ones did not die in vain.
“As a government, we remain committed to the welfare of our veterans, serving officers, and the families of our fallen heroes.
‘In Delta State, we will continue to partner with relevant authorities to ensure that those who have given so much for our collective peace are treated with dignity, compassion, and care.
“This thanksgiving service also reminds us that while the Armed Forces carry the burden of defending our nation, peace and security are collective responsibilities.
“As citizens, we must promote unity, obey the rule of law, reject violence and support our security agencies with useful information and pray on their behalf.
“I wish to sincerely commend the professionalism, resilience and patriotism of all security personnel serving in Delta State; your sacrifices have contributed immensely to the relative peace and stability we enjoy today. We do not take your service for granted.
“As we offer thanks to God this day, I pray that the souls of our departed heroes continue to rest in perfect peace.
‘May God grant strength, protection and wisdom to all those currently serving and may He continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Delta State with enduring peace.
“Let us also pray for our leaders at all levels, that God will guide us to lead with wisdom, justice, compassion and to always prioritise the welfare of our people.
“I thank the Church, the clergy, our security agencies, traditional rulers, veterans and all Deltans for being part of this important remembrance and thanksgiving service,’ Governor Oborevwori said.
Earlier, Rt. Rev. Kingsley Obuh, Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Asaba, represented by Ven. Christian Okonkwor, thanked God and the State for the opportunity to gather annually to reflect on the sacrifice made by the Armed Forces.
“No matter your position, no matter what you do, make sacrifice for your family, your community and for the good of our nation,” the Bishop said.
Some of those who attended the service included the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai who was represented by Justice Bricki Okolosi, President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Catherine Ojugbana-Orishedere, Heads of Military and Para-Military formations in the state, Chairman of Nigerian Legion in the state, Captain Robert Akpojohuro (rtd) and members of Nigerian Legion, among other personalities.
Prayers were offered for the Governor, government and the people of Delta State, the Legislature, the Judiciary, the Armed Forces and the families of fallen heroes.
Highpoint of the service was Governor Oborevwori leading the Armed Forces, members of the congregation in thanksgiving for God’s grace and mercies.
