State governors across Nigeria have used the occasion of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day to reaffirm their unwavering support for the nation's military and the families of soldiers who have died in service.
Governors Unite in Praise for Military Sacrifices
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, expressed strong confidence that terrorist groups like Boko Haram will be defeated through sustained commitment to strengthening the armed forces. Speaking at the ceremony in Port Harcourt on January 15, 2026, Governor Fubara commended President Bola Tinubu's administration for its focus on modern military hardware and improved welfare for personnel.
He stated that these federal efforts have boosted morale and produced measurable gains in combating terrorism and other security challenges across the nation. Fubara specifically highlighted the deployment of troops in multiple conflict zones.
"Our troops are engaged in the North-East, where they are battling Boko Haram and other insurgent groups," he said. "They are also deployed in the North-West and North-Central to tackle banditry and criminal abductions." The Rivers State Governor assured that his administration would continue supporting federal security initiatives to sustain peace.
Enugu and Cross River Commit to Practical Support
In Enugu State, Governor Dr. Peter Mbah participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Okpara Square. He described January 15 as a solemn day for reflection and reaffirmed his government's commitment to practical partnership with the Federal Government to support the armed forces and families of fallen heroes.
"This support goes beyond ceremony. It is reflected in practical care, in advocacy, and in partnership," Governor Mbah emphasized, calling for a united society built on dialogue and shared responsibility.
Similarly, in Calabar, Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Peter Odey, reiterated his administration's dedication to the welfare of veterans, widows, and families. The ceremony was held at the Eleven Eleven Millennium Park.
Otu described the event as a reminder of the supreme sacrifices made for national unity and peace. "The fact that we can sleep peacefully in this state is because of the hard work and commitment of our military officers," he stated. The Deputy Governor assured that widows of fallen heroes are deliberately included in state government programs.
Call for Corporate and Private Sector Involvement
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, added a broader dimension to the calls for support. He implored corporate organizations and private individuals across Nigeria to contribute to improving the conditions of service for the armed forces through partnerships and donations.
Governor Diri paid tribute to serving, retired, and fallen soldiers, stating that the Remembrance Day should serve as a renewed act of solidarity and gratitude for their sacrifices in protecting Nigeria's territorial integrity.
The collective statements from these four governors underscore a regional and bipartisan commitment to backing the Nigerian military, not just with words, but with actionable policies and partnerships aimed at welfare and capacity building.
