By Daniel Idonor

ABUJA—THE Federal Government has pledged to ensure the wellbeing of members of the Armed Forces, as well as the families of the fallen soldiers, who had paid the supreme sacrifice for the nation at various military operations within and outside the country.

Vice President Goodluck Jonathan stated this ysterday at the Interdenominational Church Service to mark this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration in Abuja.

Jonathan said: “We want to express profound appreciation to families of members of the Armed Forces who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation. Aside those who passed on, others were separated from their loved ones for long weeks and months to answer the call of national duty. It is not even easy for soldiers to see their colleagues fall besides them from a bullet.”

He noted that “from the days of the First World War till date, Nigerian soldiers have paid great sacrifices in peacekeeping operations around the world. Even during the Civil War, we lost so many men who paid the supreme sacrifice to keep Nigeria one and defend the Nigerian territory”.

According to him, “during these times, some had lost their husbands, their wives, their brothers, and their sisters. Hence, we are here today to remember their gallant efforts, and we pray that God will give these families the fortitude to bear the pain of losing their beloved.”

“As a Government, we will work with the Chief of Defence Staff and the other Service Chiefs to ensure that the welfare of the Armed Forces is adequately taken care of. This, Government must do.”