Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has urged Nigerians to pause and solemnly reflect on the immense courage, loyalty, and selfless dedication of members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives while protecting the country’s sovereignty. The governor made this call during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at Ramat Square, Maiduguri, where he described the annual observance as a moment of profound appreciation and national reflection. According to Zulum, the event serves as a reminder that the peace, stability, and freedoms currently enjoyed across the nation were secured through unwavering bravery and immense sacrifice. He stressed that such gains were not achieved effortlessly but were earned through years of resilience, discipline, and commitment by gallant officers and soldiers. He further noted that the fallen servicemen and women represent a lasting emblem of patriotism and devotion to national service, emphasizing that their contributions remain etched in Nigeria’s collective history. Beyond honouring those who died on the battlefield, the governor expanded the scope of remembrance to include military veterans who served with distinction, as well as the families left behind. He specifically acknowledged widows, children, and dependants who continue to endure the emotional and social burden of loss with remarkable strength and dignity. Governor Zulum called on citizens to go beyond symbolic gestures and ceremonial participation, encouraging meaningful support for ex-servicemen, families of fallen heroes, and military dependants. He highlighted the importance of welfare initiatives that reflect genuine appreciation for their sacrifices. Reaffirming the commitment of the Borno State Government, Zulum pledged continued support for security efforts, peacebuilding, and the overall wellbeing of both serving and retired military personnel. “As we wear the remembrance emblem, it should constantly remind us of duty, courage, and sacrifice,” the governor stated. He added that the symbol should inspire citizens to uphold the principles for which the nation’s heroes stood — unity, justice, patriotism, and selfless service to humanity. He concluded by offering prayers for the eternal rest of fallen heroes and comfort for their families, expressing hope that society will continue to honour their legacy through gratitude, care, and national unity.
The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has called for stronger institutional support for widows of fallen Nigerian armed forces personnel, stressing that their welfare must remain a top priority in honour of the sacrifices made by their late spouses in service to the nation. Dr. Hamzat made this appeal during a special Jumat Service organised to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, which is observed annually on January 15 to recognise the bravery and commitment of Nigeria’s military personnel. According to the deputy governor, sustained welfare programmes, structured financial assistance, and empowerment initiatives are essential in ensuring that widows of deceased service members are not left vulnerable after the loss of their breadwinners. He described these efforts as a moral obligation and a meaningful way of appreciating the ultimate sacrifices made by members of the armed forces who gave their lives in defence of the country. In his address, Dr. Hamzat specifically urged the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to deepen its engagement in providing long-term support systems for these widows, noting that government intervention can significantly improve their living conditions and social stability. Beyond welfare matters, the deputy governor also addressed broader societal concerns, particularly the persistent mischaracterisation of Muslims as terrorists in international narratives. He firmly stated that Islam is fundamentally a religion of peace, rejecting any attempt to associate the faith with violence. Dr. Hamzat explained that Islamic teachings strictly prohibit harming others, referencing Qur’anic principles that equate the injury of one person to the injury of the entire community. He maintained that any act of violence contradicts the core values of Islam and should not be attributed to the religion or its adherents. He further encouraged Muslim leaders and scholars to take an active role in reshaping public perception by promoting positive narratives about Islam. According to him, educational initiatives, public enlightenment programmes, and community engagement are crucial tools in countering widespread misconceptions about the faith. Earlier during the service, Imam Saheed Ahmad, who led the Jumat prayers, reminded worshippers that maintaining national security is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the duties of security agencies alone. The Imam noted that individual conduct plays a significant role in ensuring societal safety, stressing that responsible behaviour, mindful communication, and peaceful interaction within communities can ease the pressure on security forces. He stated that every law-abiding citizen contributes to national stability by acting responsibly in daily life. Imam Ahmad also paid tribute to the fallen men and women of the Nigerian armed forces, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifice in protecting the country. He emphasized that their service deserves continuous prayers and divine reward. Additionally, he cautioned against the spread of rumours and unverified information, warning that such actions can endanger public safety and undermine national security efforts.
