By: Peace udugba- The daily torch media
In a profound display of national gratitude and spiritual reflection, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, joined the faithful at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka, for a special Thanksgiving Mass to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration amd Remembrance Day.
The mass, which drew senior government officials, veteran officers, and the families of fallen heroes, served as a poignant reminder of the heavy price paid by the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces to safeguard the nation’s peace and territorial integrity.
Addressing the congregation, Governor Soludo situated the significance of the day within Nigeria’s history, noting that January 15th marks the official end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970.
“We remember, not just those who died during the civil war, but all our servicemen and women who paid the ultimate price in the service of their fatherland,” the Governor stated.
Governor Soludo offered high praise for the security agencies currently serving in the state, attributing the successful “mass return” of Ndi Anambra during the recent Christmas season to their tireless efforts.
“While we sleep, these men and women are awake,” Governor Soludo remarked.
In Anambra, the security agencies have worked extraordinarily hard to keep us safe. We will continue to support you in whatever way we can, subject to resource constraints.”
In a candid assessment of regional challenges, the Governor lamented the loss of lives to domestic “terrorists” hiding in local bushes. He commended the Federal Government for designating these kidnappers and criminals in the bushes as terrorists, noting that their actions represent a direct threat to the essence of the region.
“These people doing kidnapping… they are our own people,” he noted.
I am happy the Federal Government has designated them as terrorists. They are the most potent threats to peace and security in the South East.”
The Mass was celebrated by the Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese.
In a moving sermon, the Bishop drew a parallel between the Sacrament of Baptism and military service. “Both have much in common; they are about saving lives,” Bishop Ezeokafor explained.
“Those who surrender themselves to the service of the nation, much like those who commit to baptism, act as instruments of God in the world.”
Bishop Ezeokafor urged the congregation and the government to resist the temptation of “focusing on the self” and instead prioritize the common good of all
