Adamawa Marks 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day As Fintiri Honours Fallen Heroes, Launches Emblem Appeal

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Nigerian Armed Forces, fallen heroes and military veterans as the state marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with a series of commemorative activities in Yola.

As part of the observance, the Governor on Sunday joined officers and men of the Armed Forces in paying tribute to fallen heroes during an interdenominational church service held at the All Saints Protestant Church, 23 Armoured Brigade, Yola. The service was attended by personnel of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, government officials, serving officers, soldiers and families of service members.

Governor Fintiri was represented at the service by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Edgar Amos, who led the Adamawa State Government delegation, alongside members of the State Executive Council. The congregation participated in hymns, prayers and moments of reflection in honour of officers and soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.

In a message delivered on his behalf, the Governor commended the Armed Forces for their resilience, courage and professionalism, noting that Adamawa State has continued to benefit from their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property, particularly in the North-East. He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for the military in the discharge of their constitutional duties, stressing that peace and stability are essential for the state’s social and economic development.

He also paid glowing tribute to fallen officers and soldiers, describing their sacrifice as a lasting national obligation that must always be remembered and honoured.

Earlier, the Commander, 23 Armoured Brigade, who also serves as Acting Commander, Sector 4 of Operation Hadin Kai, restated the Armed Forces’ commitment to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, noting that the sacrifices of fallen personnel remain the foundation of the country’s peace, unity and sovereignty. The service concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed and divine protection for serving personnel.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Adamawa State Government further demonstrated its support by launching the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal Fund at the Government House, Yola.

Speaking at the event, Governor Fintiri, represented by his Deputy, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta, said members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies continue to make enormous sacrifices in the defence of lives and property, often under difficult and risky conditions.

Describing the Emblem Appeal as more than a routine ceremony, the Governor called on government, the private sector, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to contribute generously towards the welfare of veterans, widows, orphans and dependants of fallen heroes.

“The Emblem Appeal is a call to duty for all stakeholders to support those who have given so much in service to our nation. Our collective contributions can make a meaningful difference in their lives,” he said.

Governor Fintiri assured that his administration would continue to support programmes aimed at improving the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families, adding that collaboration with the Nigerian Legion and other relevant stakeholders would be sustained to ensure that veterans are not neglected. He also urged residents of the state to wear the Armed Forces Remembrance emblem with pride as a mark of appreciation for those who served the nation with honour.

Earlier, the Adamawa State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Master Warrant Officer Ali Mohammed (Rtd.), said the Remembrance Day celebration is dedicated to honouring veterans of the First, Second and Third World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, various peacekeeping missions, and personnel involved in the ongoing fight against insecurity in the North-East. He commended Governor Fintiri and other donors for their consistent support to the Legion and saluted the courage and gallantry of officers and men of the Armed Forces.

The events were climaxed by donations from top government officials, organisations and individuals, underscoring a shared commitment to honouring the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes and supporting those they left behind.