Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has urged religious leaders and residents to demonstrate gratitude, discipline, and deeper understanding in their interactions with members of the armed forces, describing their sacrifices as crucial for maintaining peace and national unity.
The governor made the appeal on Sunday, 11th January 2026, during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Interdenominational Church Service, jointly organised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Benue State Chapter, and the Benue State Government at Deeper Life Bible Church, High Level, Makurdi.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Alia revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had redesignated the annual event, effective January 8, changing the name from Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
He explained that the revision was intended not only to honour the memory of fallen heroes but also to celebrate the efforts of those currently serving in uniform.
“This shift helps us to remember our fallen heroes and at the same time celebrate those who are still serving, day and night, often without sleep, ensuring that we live in peace,” Alia stated, while offering prayers for the repose of the souls of those who gave their lives in service.
The governor also praised security agencies for their commitment and quick response to challenges, noting that any credit given to his administration for improved security should rightly go to the men and women in uniform.
Alia warned citizens to exercise fairness and objectivity when assessing the work of security personnel, emphasizing that many have paid the ultimate price defending Benue State and Nigeria.
He further encouraged residents to visit military barracks, hospitals, internally displaced persons’ camps, and retired service members to gain firsthand understanding of the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges of military life.
The governor called on religious leaders to avoid using pulpits to inflame tensions or vent personal grievances against the government or security agencies, stressing that such actions endanger peace and coexistence.
“Leadership calls for tact, facts, and responsibility. If you are not fit to lead, step aside. We must not endanger our people with inflammatory speeches,” he cautioned, adding that the state would not hesitate to caution leaders whose words undermine peace.
Governor Alia also urged CAN leadership and congregants to take interdenominational services seriously, stressing that unity across Christian denominations and respect for similar Islamic gatherings are vital for societal harmony.
“This interdenominational service reminds us that regardless of denomination, tribe or political difference, we are one under God. Our diversity must be our strength,” he said.
Earlier in the programme, CAN Vice Chairman in Benue State, Pastor Jonathan Ugbede, thanked God for the opportunity to pray for the armed forces, calling their sacrifices invaluable.
He also commended the collaboration between the Benue State Government and security agencies, which he said has contributed to the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state.
Support military, visit barracks, IDP camps – Gov Alia urges Benue residents
Source: Support military, visit barracks, IDP camps – Gov Alia urges Benue residents
