Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Ebonyi State Council, Veteran Ijeagwu Okechukwu, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes, while commending the Federal and Ebonyi State governments for their efforts in sustaining peace and security across the country.
He made this known during his address at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day held in Ebonyi State on Wednesday, January 15, 2026.
Speaking before the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, and other distinguished guests, Okechukwu described the occasion as a solemn reminder of the supreme sacrifices made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in defence of the nation’s unity and territorial integrity.
According to him, Nigerian troops have not only defended the country but have also contributed significantly to global peace through participation in various United Nations peacekeeping missions.
He urged Nigerians to remain grateful to God for the lives of surviving veterans who fought gallantly for peace at home and abroad.
The Legion chairman expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for the relative peace currently enjoyed in the country, attributing it to the concerted efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies.
He also lauded Governor Nwifuru for his decisive interventions in curbing communal violence in parts of Ebonyi State, noting that the governor’s investments in peacebuilding and security have ensured the protection of lives and property.
“We are all here today because His Excellency invested time and resources to bring peace to Ebonyi State,” Okechukwu said.
Briefly highlighting the history of the Nigerian Legion, he recalled that the body was established in 1962 and formally backed by an Act of Parliament in 1964, with subsequent amendments strengthening its legal framework.
He noted that the Legion is affiliated with international veterans’ organisations, including the British Commonwealth League of Veterans.
Okechukwu further disclosed that the Nigerian Legion operates an affiliate security outfit known as the Corps of Commissionaires, sanctioned by the Ministry of Defence.
He explained that the corps, made up of able-bodied men, supports security operations and traffic control, and is directly supervised by the Ministry of Defence.
He added that he currently serves as the Commandant of the corps in Ebonyi State.
The Legion chairman appealed to Governor Nwifuru to consider appointing qualified Legion members into government positions, recalling past appointments of members such as Squadron Leader Okoro and Barrister Clement as Special Technical Advisers, which he said boosted morale among veterans.
Okechukwu also appealed to the governor, as Patron of the Nigerian Legion in the state, to assist in upgrading the Legion’s welfare and operational capacity.
“My hope and faith are in the love, kindness and generosity of His Excellency to all, especially the Legion,” he said, while praying for continued peace and divine blessings upon the state and the nation.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes and appreciate the sacrifices of serving and retired military personnel.
