By Modupe Bankole
The Oyo State Government on Wednesday marked the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day with a solemn grand finale and wreath-laying ceremony at the Adamasingba Stadium, Ibadan, to honour fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria’s unity and territorial integrity.
Speaking at the event, Governor Seyi Makinde commended officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their resilience, dedication, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s security despite limited resources. He described the military as the backbone of Nigeria’s stability, noting that their commitment and patriotism continue to strengthen confidence in the country’s security architecture.
Governor Makinde also expressed deep concern over the recent killing of security guards at the Old National Park in Oyo State, describing the incident as painful and unacceptable. He assured that the state government is working closely with relevant security agencies to investigate the incident, apprehend those responsible, and prevent further attacks.
The governor further disclosed that he would personally visit the affected area on Thursday to commiserate with the families of the victims and assess the security situation, reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
Earlier, the Interim Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Oyo State Command, Chief Julius Alabi, lauded the Federal Government and Governor Makinde for their continued support towards the welfare of legion members and the care of families of fallen heroes.
The wreaths was laid alongside Governor Makinde included the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General C. R. Nnebeife; the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Femi Haruna; a representative of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore D. U. Njoku; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; and the Interim Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Oyo State Command, Chief Julius Alabi.
