Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, on Thursday urged Nigerians not to forget the sacrifices of fallen members of the Armed Forces, saying their selflessness remains the foundation of the peace and unity enjoyed in the country.
He spoke in Damaturu during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Government House Event Centre.
Buni, who presided over the event, said the occasion was meant to honour patriots who paid the supreme price in the defence of the nation.
“It is a known fact that the patriots we are gathered here to honour sacrificed their lives to resolve conflicts and ensure peace in our communities, our state and our country,” he said.
The governor recalled Yobe state’s experience during the Boko Haram insurgency and highlighted the progress recorded in recent years.
“Yobe was the second epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency. This very venue was once under their control. The relative peace we enjoy today is a testament to community cooperation, local intelligence and the gallantry of our security agencies,” he noted.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies, stressing that peace can only be sustained through collective responsibility.
“Security is everybody’s business. Sustained peace requires every citizen to share information and support our forces,” Buni added.
The governor also called on the people of the state to continue praying for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes, as well as for improved security in Yobe State, the North-East and the country.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Legion, Yobe State chapter, Goji Birma, commended the state government for its support for ex-servicemen and their families.
“Government intervention has been perfect. We are grateful for the administration’s partnership and that of philanthropic organisations,” he said.
Birma, however, noted that funding remains a major challenge for the legion, explaining that it relies mainly on annual emblem sales and donations.
He added that the organisation, with over 400 members, runs quarterly programmes to support veterans, widows and orphans through vocational training and welfare initiatives.
PUNCH Online reports that the ceremony featured interfaith prayers and the symbolic release of white pigeons, serving as a tribute to fallen heroes and a renewed call for peace, unity and sustained support for members of the armed forces and their families.
