Honoring the Unseen Cost of Peace: Lagos Governor Pays Tribute to Fallen Armed Forces
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has underscored the profound courage, discipline, and sacrifice inherent in the service of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, particularly during a solemn remembrance event. Speaking at the 2025 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Thanksgiving Service, held at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa, Lagos, the Governor urged a collective national reflection on the often-unseen efforts that underpin peace and the vital importance of maintaining national unity.
The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, articulated the deep sense of gratitude and humility that should accompany such occasions. “Today, we gather in the presence of God with hearts full of gratitude, humility and remembrance,” he stated. He further elaborated that the service serves a dual purpose: an act of thanksgiving and a crucial, contemplative pause. “This service is both a thanksgiving and a sacred pause — a moment to honour courage, to remember sacrifice, and to acknowledge the unseen cost of peace,” he emphasized.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the daily freedoms citizens often take for granted, emphasizing that these liberties are vigilantly protected by dedicated men and women of the Armed Forces. “Every day, we wake up to normal routines, travel freely, worship openly and live without fear. Someone, somewhere, is standing guard. Someone is watching the night so others can sleep,” he remarked, painting a vivid picture of the constant vigilance maintained by service personnel.
The Governor extended his profound thanks to the Almighty for the nation’s preservation and offered sincere commendations to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and officers. He acknowledged the challenging and perilous conditions under which they operate to ensure the country’s safety and security. “Their duty goes beyond profession; it is a calling rooted in discipline, courage and service,” he declared, elevating their commitment beyond mere employment to a higher purpose.
A significant portion of the Governor’s address was dedicated to remembering and honoring the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. He spoke directly to the families of these deceased service members, acknowledging the immense and enduring pain they carry, as well as their remarkable resilience.
Acknowledging Family Sacrifice:
The Governor recognized the profound sacrifices made by the families of fallen soldiers. He stated, “Your sacrifice is equally profound. You carried the weight of absence, uncertainty and loss with dignity.”National Debt of Gratitude:
Governor Sanwo-Olu articulated that the nation’s debt to these families extends beyond mere words of appreciation. “The nation owes you more than words; it owes you honour, care and enduring support.”Unwavering Commitment:
He concluded with a solemn promise of continued support and remembrance. “We stand with you, and we commit never to forget,” he assured the grieving families, reinforcing the state’s and the nation’s commitment to honoring their loved ones’ legacies.
The service served as a powerful reminder of the dedication and bravery of those who serve and have served the nation, and the solemn responsibility of citizens to remember their sacrifices and uphold the unity they fought to protect.
