Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has charged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as a source of strength and unity rather than division, saying the nation’s peace and stability depend on collective responsibility, sacrifice and vigilance.
Abiodun gave the charge during a Special Jumat Service held at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He said Nigeria’s current security challenges were a reminder that peace does not come by chance but is sustained through unity and shared commitment.
According to him, “our current security realities remind us that peace is never accidental. It is sustained through sacrifice, vigilance and unity.”
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako Oyedele, said Nigeria was worth protecting together, urging citizens to shun violence and embrace dialogue, tolerance and lawful efforts aimed at securing the nation.
“Nigeria is worth protecting together as we continue to build our future as one people. I urge all citizens to reject violence, embrace dialogue, promote tolerance and support lawful efforts to secure our nation,” he said.
Abiodun noted that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was a solemn moment to reflect on the sacrifices of fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price for the country’s peace and stability.
“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day reminds us that the peace we enjoy today was secured at a great cost. Our fallen heroes stood between our nation and chaos. They served Nigeria without regard to tribe, religion or region. They served one nation, under one flag, bound by a solemn oath. Their sacrifice continues to unite us as one people,” the governor stated.
He stressed that the Ogun State Government remained committed to supporting the welfare and dignity of the families of fallen heroes, while also commending the Nigerian Legion for preserving the memories of the departed and advocating for their families.
Abiodun also acknowledged Tinubu for what he described as deliberate efforts to strengthen national unity and security.
“Under the leadership of Tinubu, conscious efforts are being made to strengthen the armed forces, improve the welfare of security personnel and confront the complex security challenges facing our nation,” he said.
In his sermon, the Mufasir of Egbaland, Alhaji Abdullahi Odaranile, described security of lives and property as central to the survival of any nation, warning that countries without adequate security risk instability and domination.
“It is unfortunate that some of those saddled with the responsibility of securing the nation lost their lives in the line of duty. God is pleased with everyone who comes together to pray for those who laid down their lives for the nation, and He has a way of comforting their families,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the royal fathers, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, said security was a collective responsibility, calling on the Nigerian military to remain professional and focused on defending the country.
“The issue of security requires the efforts of everyone. The military should face this responsibility squarely and remain committed to protecting the nation,” the monarch said, while praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Baba Adinni of Egbaland and former Military Administrator, Captain Abdulrasheed Adisa Raji, thanked God for the opportunity to witness the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, praying for divine guidance for national and state leaders.
He also commended Abiodun for his support to the families of departed service personnel.
