Jonathan spoke at the Emblem Appeal Launch for the 2013 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President said whatever might be the differences of Nigerians, the country was more important than any individual or group.
He said, “For me, the strongest message is that of unity. The men and women that we remember today were drawn into national service from all parts of Nigeria and they served gallantly regardless of differences of religion or ethnicity.
“They were united by the same purpose: to keep Nigeria secured. Their oneness of purpose and spirit remind us of the significance of national cohesion; together we can achieve a lot.
“Whatever may be our differences; religious, ethnic or personal, Nigeria is more important. We must be united in rising above our differences and promoting values that bind us together.”
Jonathan advised Nigerians not to be divided by those he accused of always inputting ethnic and religious meanings to any national issue that deserves patriotism.
On the forthcoming centenary of the northern and southern protectorates, the President, who urged Nigerians to appreciate the heritage, added that the legacy of the nation’s past heroes must be cherished.
Recalling that the emblem launch was coming barely four days after the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Yakowa; the former National Security Adviser, Gen. Andrew Azazi, and four others, Jonathan said he shared in the grief of the bereaved families.
He urged Nigerians to donate generously to the emblem launch, saying it was a good way to appreciate the sacrifice that Nigerian heroes have made and are still making for the peace and security of the country.
He said his administration was committed to the welfare of its senior citizens.
He also called on state governments to continue to provide support for the living heroes.
He said, “The Federal Government, on its part, remains committed to addressing the challenges of our senior citizens. Particularly, we are currently resolving contending issues associated with pension and gratuity of veterans. It is gratifying to note that the Armed Forces pension scheme is working efficiently.
“While the Federal Government will not shirk its responsibilities, I call on all state governors, being the Patrons of the Legion in their respective states, to continue to provide adequate support, concessions and facilities for the benefit of the veterans.”
Minister of State for Defence, Olusola Obada, said the event came at a time when the nation was contending with terrorism and other forms of insecurity.
She said members of the Armed Forces had been working tirelessly to make the nation more secured for all.