Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has called on residents and religious leaders to show gratitude, discipline, and understanding toward members of the armed forces, highlighting their sacrifices as essential for peace and national unity.

The governor made the appeal on Sunday, January 11, 2026, during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Interdenominational Church Service, jointly organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Benue State Chapter, and the state government at Deeper Life Bible Church, High Level, Makurdi.

Governor Alia noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had recently redesignated the annual event, effective January 8, renaming it from Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. The change was meant to honor fallen heroes while also celebrating the dedication of those currently serving in uniform.

“This shift helps us remember our fallen heroes and celebrate those still serving, day and night, often without sleep, ensuring that we live in peace,” Alia said, offering prayers for the repose of soldiers’ souls.

The governor praised the security agencies for their commitment and quick response to challenges, stressing that any credit for improved security should go to the men and women in uniform rather than his administration. He also encouraged citizens to be fair and objective when evaluating the work of security personnel, many of whom have made the ultimate sacrifice defending Benue State and Nigeria.

Governor Alia urged residents to visit military barracks, hospitals, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and retired service members to gain firsthand understanding of the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges of military life.

He further called on religious leaders to avoid using pulpits to incite tensions or vent personal grievances against the government or security agencies, warning that inflammatory speeches endanger peace and coexistence.

“Leadership calls for tact, facts, and responsibility. If you are not fit to lead, step aside. We must not endanger our people with inflammatory speeches,” the governor cautioned.

Alia also emphasized the importance of interdenominational cooperation, urging CAN leadership and congregants to take the services seriously as a means of fostering unity across Christian denominations and respecting similar Islamic gatherings.

“This interdenominational service reminds us that regardless of denomination, tribe, or political difference, we are one under God. Our diversity must be our strength,” he said.

Earlier, CAN Vice Chairman Pastor Jonathan Ugbede thanked God for the opportunity to pray for the armed forces and commended the collaboration between the state government and security agencies, which he said has contributed to the relative peace currently enjoyed in Benue.