Sanwo-Olu reaffirms unwavering support for Armed Forces, honours Fallen Heroes

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the Nigerian Armed Forces, pledging sustained support for officers and the families of fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

The governor gave the assurance on Thursday during the Parade and Laying of Wreaths ceremony marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, held at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.

He was represented at the event by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.

Sanwo-Olu said the sacrifices of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces would never be forgotten, stressing that both government and citizens remain indebted to the courage and patriotism displayed by the country’s military personnel in safeguarding lives, property and national sovereignty.

According to him, the dangerous nature of the task undertaken daily by the Armed Forces makes it imperative for federal and state governments to reciprocate their sacrifices with tangible support and sustained welfare interventions.

“Today’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is to honour and encourage our military officers, remember our fallen heroes and pray for their souls,” the governor said.

“It is also to assure them that their sacrifices have not been in vain, and to make it clear that the nation stands firmly behind them and will continue to support them in every possible way.”

Sanwo-Olu further emphasised that the Lagos State Government remains committed to supporting widows and dependants of fallen heroes, noting that while many of the state’s interventions may not always be visible, they are consistently pursued to ensure military families are not abandoned.

He added that the administration would continue to prioritise initiatives that motivate and recognise the service of military personnel, describing them as a critical pillar of national stability and security.

In his remarks, the Deputy Controller General of the Nigerian Legion Council, DCG Wolimoh Hakeem Olawale, commended the Lagos State Government for its consistent support to the Armed Forces, particularly in the area of welfare for widows and families of fallen heroes.

Olawale reaffirmed the Nigerian Legion’s commitment to the welfare of military veterans and the dependants of deceased officers, noting that the organisation, as a statutory body, remains dedicated to protecting the interests and wellbeing of those who served the nation and the families they left behind.