Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s Armed Forces, describing their service as a sacred calling rooted in courage, discipline and sacrifice.
Sanwo-Olu said this at the 2025 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Thanksgiving Service, held at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa, Ikeja.
He urged Nigerians to continually reflect on the unseen cost of peace and the responsibility of national unity.
The governor who was represented by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said that the service provided a moment for sober reflection and gratitude to God for preserving the nation.
“Today, we gather in the presence of God with hearts full of gratitude, humility and remembrance.
“This service is both a thanksgiving and a sacred pause, a moment to honour courage, to remember sacrifice and to acknowledge the unseen cost of peace,” he said.
The governor noted that the daily freedom enjoyed by Nigerians, were sustained by men and women who remain on constant guard in difficult and dangerous environments.
“Every day we wake up to normal routines, travel freely, worship openly and live without fear; someone somewhere is standing guard.
“Someone is watching the night so others can sleep,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu thanked God for preserving Nigeria and commended soldiers, sailors, airmen and officers, for their unwavering commitment to national security.
“Their duty goes beyond a profession; it is a calling rooted in discipline, courage and service.
“They operate in conditions many of us may never see, yet, their sacrifice ensures our peace,” he added.
The governor also honoured fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, and quoted the book ofJohn 15:13, to underscore the depth of their sacrifice.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for others; That truth lives in the legacy of our fallen heroes,” he said
He extended his heartfelt sympathy to families of the deceased, acknowledging their pain and resilience.
“Your sacrifice is equally profound; You have carried the weight of absence, uncertainty and loss with dignity.
“The nation owes you more than words, it owes you honour, care and enduring support.
“We stand with you, and we commit never to forget,” he said..
The governor noted that Nigeria’s Armed Forces had continued to grow in professionalism, training and coordination.
According to him, they contribute not only to combat operations, but also to disaster response, humanitarian support, protection of critical infrastructure and the promotion of regional stability.
He said that the remembrance must inspire unity among citizens, adding that peace and security thrive in a united nation.
“A nation divided weakens its defenders; A nation united strengthens its peace.
“We must remain one people, supporting those who protect us,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also enjoined religious institutions to sustain prayers for the country, its leaders and security personnel.
“The church must continue to pray for peace, wisdom in leadership, and protection for our men and women in uniform.
“A grateful nation does not discard its veterans; it learns from them, honours their service and supports them for life,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the thanksgiving service froms part of activities to commemorate the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
It is aimed at honouring serving personnel, veterans, and fallen heroes for their dedication to the defence of Nigeria
