Transfer past civil battle of 56 years in the past, take part in Nigeria’s affairs — Soludo urges Ndigbo

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has urged Ndigbo to maneuver past the Nigerian Civil Struggle and redirect their vitality in direction of nationwide participation and growth, saying the battle ended 56 years in the past.

Soludo made the decision on Thursday through the wreath-laying and parade ceremony marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at Ekwueme Sq., Awka.

He mentioned there was no justification for continued violence and bloodshed within the title of agitation, noting that the civil battle formally ended on January 15, 1970.

He mentioned, “The individuals of the South-East should redirect their vitality in direction of lively participation in nationwide affairs and the collective growth of Nigeria.

“We can’t proceed to combat a civil battle that ended 56 years in the past by hiding within the bushes and killing ourselves. January 15 marked the official finish of the civil battle, and that chapter of our historical past should stay closed.

“Armed Forces Remembrance Day is noticed to honour Nigerian heroes who misplaced their lives through the Civil Struggle and in subsequent efforts to protect the unity of the nation.

“The day serves as a reminder of the large sacrifices made to maintain Nigeria united and the necessity to make sure that such a tragedy by no means happens once more.”

The governor additionally appealed to armed {groups} and bandits working in numerous elements of the nation to put down their arms and contribute positively to nationwide growth.

Soludo said, “It is a second to remind the individuals of the area that the civil battle has ended and that we should take our rightful place and present curiosity within the affairs of this nation.

“Many individuals in Anambra State and the South-East have misplaced confidence and curiosity in nationwide participation. I urge them to not lose hope in Nigeria. The youths within the area should take into account careers within the navy, police, and different safety companies; they need to see themselves as co-owners of the nation.

“If you don’t be a part of the police or the military within the subsequent 15 years, you can be complaining in regards to the absence of senior navy officers out of your area. I urge you to specific curiosity in serving Nigeria.”

The governor appealed to armed {groups} and youths claiming to be combating for Biafra to desert violence and embrace reintegration.

“I need to name on our brothers within the bushes who declare they’re liberators to return out. Human beings don’t dwell within the bush. We attraction to you to return out and take part meaningfully in constructing the state and this nation,” he said.

Reflecting on the importance of Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Soludo mentioned the event was to honour Nigerian heroes who misplaced their lives through the Civil Struggle and subsequent efforts to protect the nation’s unity.

He additionally counseled safety companies in Anambra State for enhancing safety, noting that the state recorded peaceable Christmas celebrations.

Soludo added, “We’re right here to recollect and to say ‘by no means once more’. Their supreme sacrifice shall not be in useless. We additionally bear in mind the women and men who’re nonetheless in lively service—those that keep awake to guard us whereas we sleep peacefully in our properties.

“I particularly counseled safety companies in Anambra State for his or her efforts in enhancing safety, which led to a peaceable ambiance and large public turnout through the latest Christmas celebrations.

“I need to thank all the safety companies within the state, the Navy, Military, Police, Immigration, Civil Defence, and others who’ve sacrificed to take care of peace. At present, we rejoice your dedication to defending Anambra State.”

Soludo disclosed that the state had reclaimed eight native authorities areas beforehand affected by legal actions, including that improved collaboration amongst safety companies was yielding outcomes.

“This 12 months, Anambra celebrated Christmas like by no means earlier than. I additionally commend President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in tackling insecurity throughout the nation.

“Insecurity had festered in Nigeria for almost twenty years, however we’re assured that sustained collaboration among the many armed forces would result in victory.

“With the renewed cooperation among the many armed forces, Nigerians are assured that we are going to overcome insecurity and construct a safer nation,” the governor added.

The ceremony was attended by the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, service chiefs and different dignitaries.

Actions on the occasion included intercessory prayers, a second of silence, gun salute, wreath-laying and the discharge of white pigeons to symbolise peace and unity.