Gov. Douye Diri, of Bayelsa, on Sunday, underscored the need for prioritisation of the welfare of officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, following their relentless service and sacrifice to the nation.
The governor said this during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day interdenominational service, held at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.
He noted that the armed forces deserved better welfare during and after their service to the county.
Diri decried a situation where retired military personnel go through harrowing conditions to get their pension and retirement benefits, adding that some of them even die in the process.
He expressed delight on the improving situation under the current administration, and called for greater sacrifices from Nigerians.
Meanwhile, he urged Nigerians to stop social media critic of the military and government at every opportunity, adding that the military deserved commendation for their selfless service.
“The welfare of the military ought to be prioritised; Without the military, there is no country.
“The armed forces are an important part of government; While we sleep, they are busy working to keep us safe, Yet, some people go on the Internet to insult them and the government.
“The sacrifices they make even lead to sacrificing their own lives; It is sad that upon retirement, some of them queue under the rain and sun waiting for retirement benefits,” he said
While noting that part of the problem facing the country also included non adherence to laws, he called for discipline and orderliness.
The governor also implored serving military and police officers, to be diligent and professional in the discharge of their duties, so as not to discredit their agencies.
In a sermon, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion, Rev. Godspower Asingba, harped on the need for Nigerians to encourage pray for its military personnel.
Asingba noted that military personnel work under extremely harsh environment, adding that they deserve our prayers.
