Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called for a shift in the way the state and the nation honor its military personnel and security agencies. Speaking at the Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday, in commemoration of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Governor Fubara emphasized that while the annual event is crucial to honor fallen heroes, it is equally important to celebrate and support those in active service.
The event, which took place at the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Chaplaincy at the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) in Rumuibekwe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, featured leaders from various religious denominations. Governor Fubara used the occasion to challenge the traditional approach to remembrance, arguing that honoring those who serve and sacrifice in the military should not be limited to their posthumous contributions.
"It is unfair to only remember our fallen heroes on this day," Governor Fubara said, reflecting on the significance of the Remembrance Day. "We must also focus on the living—those who risk their lives daily to protect our country. We must do more to support them, ensuring they are not forgotten when they are alive."
He assured the military personnel and their families that his administration is committed to improving the lives of officers and men currently serving, as well as ensuring that survivors and families of fallen heroes are adequately supported.
The Governor highlighted that his government would not merely focus on memorializing those who have passed, but would also place greater emphasis on the welfare of active personnel and their dependents. “Our government will not only honor those who have died, but we will make sure that those who remain are also cared for. We want them to know that the government of Rivers State is here for them—both in times of service and in the lives they lead afterward,” Fubara said.
He also stressed the importance of continuing to protect the welfare of the people of Rivers State, and by extension, Nigeria, which relies on the security forces to maintain peace and stability. "At the end of the day, it's about the people. The safety and welfare of our citizens are our priority. We want to ensure that while you are serving, you are also enjoying the fruits of that service,” Governor Fubara remarked.
Drawing inspiration from biblical scripture, the Governor likened the leadership of the state to that of Moses, seeking divine guidance to steer the state on the right path. He also made a plea to religious leaders across the state, urging them to use their platforms to promote unity and peace. "The pulpit should be a place for peace, progress, and unity," he implored, cautioning against divisive rhetoric that undermines social harmony.
Looking ahead to the future, Governor Fubara expressed optimism about the state’s progress. Reflecting on the challenges faced in the previous year, he noted that 2025 brings new hope and opportunities for the people of Rivers State. "This year is special because God has been with us. We are moving forward with confidence, focusing on inclusive growth and development, especially in human capital,” he added.
Governor Fubara also called on the security agencies to continue their professional duty to the state, regardless of their ethnic background, and to work in the best interest of the people. "If anything goes wrong here, it affects the entire nation," he warned, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective responsibility.
In his homily, Very Reverend Monsignor Pius Kii, the Chaplain of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Chaplaincy, underscored the significance of remembrance, urging everyone to recognize the importance of service to society and humanity. He also stressed that the contributions of military personnel, especially those who risk their lives for the nation’s peace and security, should be acknowledged with proper remuneration and respect.
