Former presidential candidate under the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in 2023, Rabiu Kwankwaso, on Wednesday said men and women of the Armed Forces make sacrifices so that Nigerians can live in freedom.

Kwankwaso expressed gratitude to men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their extraordinary sacrifices of safeguarding the country.

In a statement to mark 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance day, the NNPP National leader said security operatives have been courageous despite enduring hardship in the course of their duties.

According to Kwankwaso: “To the brave men and women of our armed forces, on this day of remembrance, we stand in deep admiration and gratitude for your extraordinary sacrifice. Words can hardly capture the enormity of what you give — the courage you show, the hardships you endure, and the personal toll your service takes. Yet, you continue to serve with honour, strength, and resilience, embodying the very spirit of sacrifice that defines true patriotism.

“You stand ready, often at great personal cost, to protect the freedoms we hold dear and the values that shape our nation. For every mission you’ve undertaken, for every moment you’ve spent away from your families, for every sacrifice that remains unseen, we are profoundly grateful. The path you walk is one of duty, honour, and unwavering commitment to a cause greater than yourself — and for that, you are deserving of our deepest respect and admiration.

“The pain of separation, the uncertainty of deployment, the weight of responsibility — these are burdens you carry so that we may sleep soundly at night, knowing our safety and freedom are never taken for granted. Whether standing watch in distant lands, responding to crises, or quietly serving in roles that support our national defence, each of you plays an essential part in ensuring that we remain free and secure.

“On this Armed Forces Remembrance Day, we honour not only the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice but also every service member who continues to stand strong, face danger, and protect what we hold dear. Your service is a testament to your unshakable commitment to the greater good, and we recognize the weight of the sacrifices you have made — and continue to make — every single day.

“To the families who support you, we extend our heartfelt gratitude as well. Your strength and unwavering love are vital to the resilience of our armed forces. You, too, make sacrifices, standing beside your loved ones, sharing the burden of their service.

“Thank you for your courage, your service, and your sacrifice. We will never forget the price you pay so that we may live in freedom. Today and always, we honour you. You are the true heart of our nation, and we are forever indebted to you. -AWT”