By Yarima Haruna, Birnin Kebbi
The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Kebbi State was a bittersweet occasion, with Governor Nasir Idris acknowledging the sacrifices of fallen heroes and their families, while also highlighting the challenges they face.
The Governor lamented the difficult living conditions of families left behind by veterans who died defending the country and announced measures to alleviate their hardship.
On the other side, the Chairperson of the wives of the fallen heroes, Hajiya Asama’u Umar Kanoma, acknowledged and appreciated the support being provided to them by the Governor and presented some demands that will further improve their living condition.
At the celebration of the Remembrance Day held at the Haliru Abdu Multipurpose Stadium, Comrade Nasir Idris recalled the unfortunate situation that resulted to the loss of their patriotic breadwinners and appealed to them to be consoled by the appreciation being expressed by Nigerians over the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes.
The Governor has also acknowledged the commendable efforts being made by the Armed Forces from top to bottom towards bringing an end to the persistent armed banditry menace being experienced in Kebbi State.
According to Abdulllahi Idris Zuru, already the Governor has ensured the inclusion of the families of both the fallen heroes, widows of the veterans and the barracks community in the different palliatives support and economic empowerment programmes.
In brief remarks shortly after laying the wrath on the symbolic graves of the fallen heroes, Comrade Kauran Gwandu has announced the a gift of N10 million each to the families of both the fallen heroes, widows of the veterans and the Army barracks community.
Governor Idris announced a donation of N10 million on behalf of his family and N50 million on behalf of the government and people of Kebbi State to support veterans and families of fallen soldiers.
He also pledged more economic empowerment programs for the communities.
The families of fallen heroes and widows of veterans appreciated the support but made additional demands to improve their living conditions.
The Governor assured them of continued government support, citing initiatives like land allocation, Hajj seats, and welfare improvements.
The celebration included a wreath-laying ceremony, parade, and prayers for fallen soldiers. Governor Idris commended serving and retired military personnel for their efforts in combating armed banditry in Kebbi State.
Other contributors to the Remembrance Day fund included the State Executive Council, N5 million; the Secretary to the State Government, N500,000; and various Emirates and organizations.
