AFCRD 2026: Gov Bago Hails Fallen Heroes’ Sacrifices
Niger State Governor, His Excellency, Farmer Umaru Bago, has commended the sacrifices of fallen heroes and serving personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their unwavering commitment in defence of the nation’s peace, unity, and progress.
Governor Bago made the remarks on Thursday, January 15, 2026, during the grand finale and wreath-laying ceremony marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026, held at the Cenotaph, Old State Secretariat, Minna.
The Governor described the courage and patriotism of members of the Armed Forces as the bedrock of Nigeria’s sovereignty, stressing that their sacrifices would continue to be remembered and honoured by present and future generations. He reaffirmed the state government’s support for the military and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard lives and property.
Earlier, as part of activities lined up for the commemoration, the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command of the Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA), Major General Peter Malla, participated in a series of events, including a Special Jumat prayer and Interdenominational Church Service in honour of serving personnel and fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
In furtherance of the remembrance activities, Major General Malla hosted a reception at the Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Multi-Purpose Hall in the Cantonment, where officers, soldiers and their families and invited guests gathered to unwind, socialise, and reflect on their respective military career journeys.
In a similar vein, the Chairperson of the TRADOC NA Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Minna Chapter, Mrs Amina Peter Malla, distributed palliative materials to widows residing within the cantonment and Military Widows Association (MIWA) in Minna. The gesture was aimed at honouring the sacrifices of their late husbands who laid down their lives in defence of Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the reception included the Commander, 31 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Muhammed Jibo; the Commander, 013 Quick Response Force, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Akinyosade; as well as a representative of the Commissioner of Police and heads of other security agencies in the state.
Members of Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) were also in attendance.
