The Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has tasked the Federal Government to set up special welfare fund for members and families of the armed forces who served in the two World Wars and the Nigerian Civil War, as a way to ameliorate their sufferings.
The Governor stated this at the All Saints Cathedral Church (Anglican Communion), Rumuokwurusi, Rivers State during the Special Thanksgiving Service organised to commemorate the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
He said: “Every serious government should have a standing welfare fund, specially set up for the families of the retired servicemen, considering that no amount is too much to appreciate the labours of the servicemen whose sacrifices ensured the unity of Nigeria.”
The Governor also lauded the leadership qualities of the Bishop of the Diocese of Evo, the Rt. Rev. Innocent Uchechukwu Ordu, describing him as a true man of God and an exemplary leader.
“I must express my satisfaction at the amazing work I have seen here in this cathedral. I will continue to support the diocese. I have never doubted the leadership qualities of Bishop Ordu, but coming here today and seeing the quality of things in this Cathedral, I now have more love and greater respect for him. This is why I will continue to love and support him because he has shown he is a true man of God,” Wike said.
Delivering his sermon titled, “A Blessed Memory” with text from Prov. 10:7, the Vicar of All Saints Cathedral, Ven. Alex Usifoh, applauded the sacrifices of the retired servicemen, stating that their sacrifices cannot be easily forgotten.
Ven. Usifoh noted that a blessed memory is service that leaves an impact, loud legacies, and unchallenged monuments that cut across generations.
He urged Nigerians, especially those in positions of power to ensure that they bequeath worthy legacies that would have a positive impact on society.
The Vicar called on Nigerians to conduct their affairs in a manner that leaves a positive impact in their workplaces, communities and at the state level. He urged Nigerians to continue to support the families of the war veterans in appreciation of the sacrifices they have made.
He admonished leaders in all areas of life to impact people positively with love and fear of God, so, as to leave amazing footprints on the sands of time.
During intercession, the church prayed for the Nigerian Legion, the families of the fallen heroes, the state and Federal governments.
One of the highlights of the service was the cathedral choir treating the congregation to a melodious rendition.
Chaplains from different military chaplaincies across the country, members of the Nigerian Legion, the Armed Forces, top government functionaries, traditional rulers and the political class graced the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Service.
