End self marginalization, Soludo urges Igbo people

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By Madu Obi

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has called for an end to self-marginalization by the youths of the South East, urging them to enlist in the Nigerian Armed Forces and embrace their roles as "co-owners" of the Nigerian project.

The governor made the call during the wreath-laying ceremony marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day in Awka.

Reflecting on the 56th anniversary of the end of the Nigerian Civil War, Soludo noted that the "no victor, no vanquished" philosophy must remain a guiding light for the nation.

He described the three years civil war as "needless", emphasizing that the day's ceremony was a solemn tribute to all who have paid the supreme price.

"We are remembering, not just members of our armed forces who died during that needless war, but all those who paid the supreme price after. This is the year we set aside as a nation to remember and to say: never again", the governor said.

He paid specific tribute to the widows, widowers, and families of fallen heroes, while also celebrating the gallantry of officers currently in active service—particularly those stationed within Anambra State—who work tirelessly to ensure peace and security.

Specifically addressing the people of the South East, Governor Soludo lamented the low enlistment rates of Anambra indigenes in the national security architecture, describing the lack of participation in the Armed Forces as a form of "self-marginalization."

He also challenged the youths to see the military as a platform for national service and a way to secure their stake in the country.

"We must participate as co-owners of Project Nigeria," he asserted, reminding the audience that the civil war ended over five decades ago and that the region must fully reintegrate into all national institutions.

On the current security challenges in the region, the governor pleaded with those currently involved in violent agitation and "living in the bushes to end it.

"The terror era is over and I call on our brothers in the bushes to come out. We will help you to become useful citizens of the state. To Ndi Anambra and the rest of the South East, this is the time to remind ourselves that the war has ended", he stated.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu and the various service commanders in Anambra for their steadfastness, acknowledging that the security problem has festered for a long time.

He expressed unwavering confidence that the current wave of terror would be decisively dealt with soonest.