Army chief presents new vehicle to retired soldier at remembrance day

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. F. Yahaya (NAM), has presented a brand new vehicle, Toyota Hilux, to a retired soldier, Awo Stephen Ekpe.

The presentation was made through Commander of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. PP Malla, at this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Calabar, Cross River State.

Ekpe expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. F. Yahaya, for the gift.

He described the COAS as a man of integrity for keeping his word.

He added that though retired, they still have a lot to contribute to the country in terms of intelligence gathering and they will do their best to improve the country’s security.

As part of the celebration, a wreath was laid at the tomb of an unknown soldier by the state Deputy Governor Prof. Ivara Esu as well as the speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams.

The unknown soldier was also honoured with a wreath by the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Akon Ikpeme as well as the Commander of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Maj. General PP Malla.

Others who laid wreaths are the commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship Victory, State Police Commissioner, Commandant of the Naval War College, State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, among other officers.

Permanent Secretary Special Services Governor’s Office Alfred Mboto, said the country would never forget those who paid the supreme price in the service of the country.

He said the state government prioritizes the welfare of officers serving in the state and encouraged them to put in their best for the country.

The highpoint of the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in the state was the firing of the 21 gunshots in honour of the departed soldiers as well as the release of white pigeons by the state deputy governor.