President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday broke the silence over crowd of violent protest across south east, saying that the fact that the country has remained as one despite the challenges of internal strife and civil war it had suffered over the last 55 years of the nation’s independence is a testimony to the fact that Nigerians are determined to remain as one.
President Buhari spoke against the background of agitations for the dismemberment of the country by pro Biafra groups in the South east parts of Nigeria.
Buhari made the statement while launching the 2016 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund in Abuja. He however, said the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes, heroines and veterans who stood up to confront the security challenges of the country cannot be forgotten.
“Our nation has recently celebrated 55 years of political independence and continues to remain as one indivisible entity despite several grievous challenges. Since independence, Nigeria has witnessed a lot of internal strife, survived a civil war and has remained united. This feat achieved by the country is an eloquent testimony to the determination of our citizens to remain as one people.”
He enthused the bravery and gallantry of men and officers who have paid the supreme prize to keep Nigeria as one indivisible country.
In his words: “We are gathered here today to observe a worthy tradition of acknowledging and appreciating the gallantry and accomplishments of our veterans in the First and Second World Wars, Peace Support Operations around the world, and internal security operations particularly the ongoing campaign against terrorism in our country.”
The President who noted that with the ongoing insurgency in parts of the country, Nigeria is facing one of its most trying times, said the theme of this years’ Armed Forces Remembrance Day “Motivating the Nigerian Armed Forces for Effective Service Delivery” as very apt for the current realities.
