President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio has declared that Nigeria’s fallen heroes, as well as serving and retired military personnel, deserve honour and respect.

Akpabio made this declaration in a statement on Monday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Eseme Eyiboh.

He said the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces to keep Nigeria one and in peace should be acknowledged and accorded due honour and respect by every Nigerian.

“Nigerians owe their fallen heroes, serving and retired military personnel, absolute honour, respect and, in fact, a debt of gratitude because it is not a fluke for people to offer their lives in defence of their countrymen and women to live in peace and harmony.

“I sincerely salute their sacrifices, which sometimes go unnoticed and unappreciated. By laying their lives for our sake, those who died in the line of duty are our fallen heroes and must be honoured at all times.

“For those who are in the trenches fighting day and night and those who have retired, we will continue to give them their due honour and respect.

“The military have been partners in the progress of defending the territorial integrity of the nation, maintaining peace and sustaining our cherished democracy. This is commendable,” he said in the statement.

Akpabio assured that the National Assembly, under his leadership, would continue to give priority and undiluted attention to the welfare of the members of the Armed Forces.