Page 2 - AFRD Special Edition
P. 2
Principal’s Address
As we honour their memory, let us
not simply reflect on the past but
be inspired to live lives worthy of
their sacrifices.
In the Second World War, Nigerian soldiers
again played a vital role. The 81st and 82nd
(West Africa) Divisions were pivotal in the Bur-
ma Campaign, demonstrating exceptional
resolve and skill under the most challenging
Parents, students, staff and honoured guests, circumstances. These soldiers represented
their nation and carried the hopes of a global
oday, we gather in solemn reflec- community striving for peace. Their actions,
tion to honour the courage, sacri- rooted in unity, are a testament to the power
T fice, and dedication of those who of standing together to overcome adversity,
served selflessly to defend the values of peace, inspiring us all.
unity, and freedom. On Nigeria’s Armed Forc-
es Remembrance Day, we remember the im- Beyond these global conflicts, Nigerian sol-
mense contributions of Nigerian soldiers, who diers have continued to serve with distinction
have stood shoulder to shoulder with others in in peacekeeping missions worldwide. From
conflicts that have shaped our shared history. Congo in the 1960s to more recent deploy-
ments in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Darfur, they
Nigerian soldiers served with extraordinary have upheld Nigeria’s commitment to global
bravery during the two World Wars alongside stability and humanitarian aid. Their contri-
the Allies. In the First World War, over 100,000 butions remind us that peace is a shared en-
West African Frontier Force soldiers and many deavour, requiring selflessness and courage
Nigerians participated in campaigns such as in equal measure.
the East African theatre. They marched for
miles through rugged terrain, enduring un- As we reflect on these sacrifices, the poppy
imaginable conditions and their unwavering emerges as a universal symbol of remem-
resilience was instrumental in securing key brance. Its story began in the aftermath of
victories and inspiring hope in the face of ad- the First World War when the flower bloomed
versity. across the battlefields of Flanders, where dev-
astation had seemed all-encompassing.
THE REGENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 2 2
