Nsit Atai Chairman Pays Tribute To Fallen Heroes
The Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Anthony Nyong, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes for their gallantry and supreme sacrifice in defending the nation’s unity and territorial integrity.
The Chairman paid the tribute during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day held at the Local Government Headquarters in Odot on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Hon. Nyong acknowledged the courage and selflessness of officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who laid down their lives during the civil war and in subsequent military engagements to ensure that Nigeria remains one indivisible nation.
He noted that the peace, freedom, and unity enjoyed by Nigerians today were purchased through the blood, sweat, and sacrifices of men and women in uniform.
According to him, “The story of patriotism in Nigeria will remain incomplete without honouring those whose faces we may never see again and whose voices we shall hear no more,” stressing that Armed Forces Day celebration and Remembrance Day provide an opportunity for sober reflection and renewed national commitment to those who defend the country.
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The Chairman commended the families of the departed heroes for their resilience and patriotism, describing their sacrifices as invaluable to the peace and stability of the nation.
He emphasised the need for continuous remembrance and sustained support for both serving and retired personnel of the Armed Forces, as well as the families of fallen heroes.
Hon. Nyong further highlighted that Akwa Ibom State, under the leadership of Governor Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, places security at the heart of its development agenda through the ARISE Agenda, with deliberate attention to the welfare of security personnel.
He assured that Nsit Atai Local Government would continue to complement these efforts by integrating ex-servicemen of Nsit Atai origin into the local security architecture and social welfare programmes of the council.
The council boss also disclosed that the council has strengthened collaboration with security agencies operating within the area to ensure a peaceful, safe, and secure environment, enabling residents to go about their lawful activities without fear.
“As we mark this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, it is my prayer that we cease from fanning the embers of conflict and instead join hands to build a nation founded on justice, peace, and equal opportunities,” the Chairman stated.
As part of the event, Hon. Nyong donated funds and food items to legionnaires and widows of fallen soldiers and offered prayers for God’s protection over them, their families, and troops currently engaged in peacekeeping and internal security operations across the country.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Nsit Atai Chapter, Major Edet Idung (rtd.), commended the Executive Chairman for his consistent support to the Legion and called on members of the public to extend care and assistance to ex-servicemen who, according to him, endured hardship and made great sacrifices in the pursuit of national peace.
Highlights of the ceremony included the inspection of the guard of honour, the taking of the salute by the Chairman, a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, the launching of the Remembrance Emblem, and the laying of wreaths.
Dignitaries at the event included the Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Affiong Amanam; Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Ubong Udoeyo; Secretary of Council, Elder Sunday Udia; Paramount Ruler of Nsit Atai LGA, HRM Edidem Prophet Peter Effiong, JP; APC Chapter Chairman, Obong Ntiaobong Essien; councillors, Supervisors, Head of Service, Directors, NULGE officials, legionnaires, security agencies, political stakeholders, CAN Chairman of Nsit Atai, and other notable personalities.
