The Yobe State Governor, Hon Mai Mala Buni, has said that Nigeria remains eternally indebted to the courage and sacrifices of gallant soldiers and other security personnel who laid down their lives in defence of the nation's sovereignty, peace and unity.
Buni stated this on Monday in Damaturu at the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration and Emblem Appeal Week, where he paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes and living veterans for their selfless service to the country.
The governor said the annual event provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the enormous sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces who fought in the World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and those who represented the country in various United Nations and ECOWAS peacekeeping missions.
He said the courage of Nigerian soldiers has also been instrumental in confronting contemporary security challenges, including Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, cattle rustling, kidnapping and other forms of criminality threatening national stability.
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Buni noted with deep sadness that many soldiers paid the supreme price in the line of duty, while others returned from the battlefields with life-altering injuries, bearing physical reminders of the painful chapters in the nation's history.
"These sacrifices must never be forgotten. Our fallen heroes gave everything so that Nigeria can enjoy peace, security and liberty. We owe them, and the families they left behind, a lasting debt of gratitude," he said.
The governor explained that the week-long remembrance activities are aimed at offering prayers for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes, honouring their memories, and mobilising support for widows, children and dependents of deceased soldiers.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Yobe State Government to continue supporting families of fallen heroes and to strengthen collaboration with the state chapter of the Nigerian Legion in advancing the welfare of veterans.
Governor Buni also acknowledged the recent change in leadership of the Nigerian Legion in the state, urging the new executives to consolidate on the achievements of their predecessors and align with the developmental agenda of the state government.
The governor used the forum and announced a donation of N30 million on behalf of the Yobe State Government, alongside a personal contribution of N5 million to the fund, calling on others to emulate the gesture.
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Buni equally appealed to corporate organisations, religious bodies, public-spirited individuals and groups to donate generously to the Legion's Welfare Appeal Fund, stressing that all hands must be on deck for the welfare of the veterans and their families.
