By Jessica John Bakari
Pharmacist Isah Shehu Ardo Mni, the Head of the Civil Service, has praised the courage of the armed forces in their ongoing battle against insurgents and bandits. He expressed his commendation during a press briefing to mark the commencement of activities for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Emblem Appeal Week, held in his office at the State Secretariat in Jimeta.
He explained that, in Nigeria, this day is celebrated annually to honour the men and women who sacrificed their lives during the First and Second World Wars and peacekeeping operations.
Pharmacist Isah Shehu Ardo emphasized that the armed forces have made significant contributions to restoring peace and stability in countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, and are currently engaged in fighting insurgency in the Northeast and banditry in the Northwest, as well as other parts of Nigeria.
The Head of the Civil Service noted that the event was originally observed on November 11 in Nigeria until the federal military government under General Yakubu Gowon changed the date to January 15 due to significant developments in the armed forces, including the first military coup on January 15, 1966, and the end of the Civil War in January 1970.
This year, the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day will be commemorated with a series of events, including a parade rehearsal on Friday, followed by Jumma’a prayer at the 23rd Armoured Brigade mosque barracks, a football match between the Governor’s team and the Brigade Commander’s team, tug-of-war competitions, and more on Saturday.
Pharmacist Isah Shehu Ardo also expressed gratitude to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his personal interest and financial support in ensuring the success of the event activities. He urged all Nigerians to contribute generously to support the government’s efforts for this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Appeal Week.
He implored the leadership of the Legion to utilize the donations strictly for the benefit of the dependents and ailing members of the Legion.
The lineup of activities for the week is expected to conclude on January 15, 2025, with a wreath-laying ceremony and the Emblem Appeal launch, which will be conducted by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
