In continuation with the series of activities lined up to mark the Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) 2023, an Interdenominational Church Service was held on 8 January 2023, at St Pater Catholic Church, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna with the representative of the Kaduna State Governor in attendance.
In his remarks at the event, the Governor of Kaduna State, His Excellency Mallam Nasiru Ahmad El – Rufai, represented by the Permanent Secretary Cabinet and Political Affairs, Mr Nuhu Ishaku Buzun, appreciated the Nigerian Armed Forces for the maintenance of peace and security in the country. He noted that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was set aside to honour the fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of the Nation. He then urged serving personnel to continue to encourage the families of the fallen heroes.
While making his remarks, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Whirl Punch Major General Taoreed Lagbaja stated that the Interdenominational Church Service held in honour of the fallen heroes was a sober reflection on the journey and sacrifices made by gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He noted that there is no greater sacrifice than that which the fallen heroes have made. General Lagbaja further saluted the courage, patriotism and selfless service of officers and men of the Armed Forces who for the comfort, security, safety and well being of country and its citizens have continued put their lives in the line.
In his sermon, Lt Col (Rev) Y David, the Deputy Director Chaplain Services Protestant of the Division focused on the theme, “The Role of Courage in Challenging Situations” He encouraged members of the Armed Forces to have faith and never to be afraid to fight for the protection and safety of Nigeria and Nigerians. He prayed for the serving, retired and other members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the supreme price while in service to our father land. He also prayed for sovereignty of our country Nigeria and for the restoration of lasting peace and unity in the country.
In appreciation of the roles and immense contribution of the Barracks and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to their lives, the patron of Ex Ribadu Boys and Girls Association Engr Nimrod and other Executive Members of the Association presented an award of Excellence to the GOC 1 Division Major General TA Lagbaja for safeguarding the barracks and the Division’s Area of Responsibility. They equally extended their humanitarian assistance to the barracks widows by donating Grinding Machines, Laptop Computers and Sewing Machines among others.
In attendance at the Interdenominational Church Service were, the Air Officer Commanding Air Training Command of the Nigerian Air Force AVM NN Ananaba, The Chief of Staff 1 Division Brigadier General MK Gara, Comd 1 Div Gar Brigadier General C Ogbuabo, Comd 41 Engineers Brigade, Brigadier General JO Attah, Chairman Nigerian Legion Kaduna State Chapter, Representative of the Chairperson NAOWA 1 Division Chapter Mrs Helen Attah, Commanders and Principal Staff Officers of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force, officer, soldiers, airmen and women from various military formations and units across Kaduna State among others.
