Kaigama Calls for Veterans’ Welfare, Unity at Armed Forces Remembrance Service
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged improved welfare for military veterans and prompt disbursement of benefits to families of fallen heroes, emphasizing the importance of inspiring selfless service among active personnel.
Delivering a sermon during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Inter-Denominational Church Service in Abuja on Sunday, Kaigama honored the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes and stressed collective responsibility in supporting their families.
He called on political leaders to uphold justice and human rights, advocating for a secure and dignified future for all Nigerians. Kaigama described the current peace in the nation as “the peace of the graveyard” and urged collaborative efforts among security forces, equitable resource distribution, and compassionate leadership to address national challenges.
The archbishop condemned ethnic and religious discrimination, emphasizing unity, justice, and mutual respect as essential pillars for societal harmony.
Quoting President Bola Tinubu’s New Year message, Kaigama shared a note of hope:
“‘To all citizens, your sacrifices have not been in vain. Together, let us stay the course of nation-building. The New Year will bring us closer to the bright future we all desire and the Nigeria of our dreams.’”
He concluded his sermon with prayers for national recovery and progress in 2025.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the families of fallen heroes and addressing challenges faced by veterans.
Akpabio highlighted the need to strengthen welfare programmes and implement policies ensuring no family feels neglected.
“We owe it to these families and their loved ones to build a nation where peace, justice, and opportunity prevail. The sacrifices of our heroes demand that we rise above divisions and work together for the common good,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to honor the legacy of the fallen by fostering unity, advancing peace, and building a prosperous nation.