Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, has called for urgent reforms in the welfare of the Nigerian Armed Forces, stressing that soldiers and officers who safeguard the nation deserve respect, recognition, and adequate support both during and after their service.
The governor said this on Sunday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day interdenominational service held at the King of Glory Chapel in Government House, Yenagoa.
Diri observed that retired military personnel often face undue hardship when seeking pension and retirement benefits, with some even losing their lives while waiting for government assistance.
Sharing a personal account, the governor recalled the recent death of a former classmate who had served in the military, attributing the tragedy to inadequate welfare provisions.
“These men and women risk their lives to protect our nation. It is unacceptable that some die waiting for benefits they rightly earned. We must do more to support them,” he said.
Diri acknowledged improvements under the current federal administration but noted that these steps were insufficient.
He emphasised that all levels of government, as well as citizens, have a role to play in ensuring that the military is adequately cared for.
The governor also urged Nigerians to refrain from online attacks on the armed forces and government, insisting that public appreciation and encouragement are critical to morale.
“The welfare of the military must be a priority, without them, there is no country.
”They operate around the clock to protect our communities, yet too often they are insulted or neglected.
”We must honour their sacrifices and provide the support they deserve, ” he said.
Beyond welfare, Governor Diri encouraged serving military and police officers to remain disciplined, professional, and committed to upholding the integrity of their institutions.
He noted that the nation relies heavily on the armed forces to maintain security, and their conduct directly reflects on the government and the people.
During the sermon, Rev. Godspower Asingba, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religion, highlighted the difficult conditions under which military personnel serve, calling on citizens to offer prayers, moral support, and recognition for their dedication.
He urged Nigerians to be conscious of the sacrifices soldiers make daily and to actively support policies that improve their welfare.
The service was attended by notable state officials, including the wife of the governor, Justice Patience Diri, Senator representing Bayelsa Central, Dr. Konbowei Benson, House of Representatives member Dr. Fred Agbedi, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Chief Judge Justice Matilda Ayemieye, former deputy governors Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi and Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, and other members of the state executive council.
Several serving and retired military officers, along with service commanders, were also in attendance.
