Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to continued support for the welfare of Nigeria's security forces and veterans, as well as honoring the fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defense of the nation.
He made the pledge during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony held at the People's Square, Katsina on Thursday.
Describing the occasion as a solemn moment of reflection, Radda said the day is dedicated to celebrating the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of members of the armed forces who laid down their lives for the peace, unity and dignity of Nigeria.
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He paid heartfelt tribute to both the fallen heroes and surviving veterans as well as active-duty personnel whose commitment, he said, continues to protect the country from internal and external threats.
According to him, “In Katsina State, we celebrate this day with deep reverence. Our land knows the footsteps of many valiant soldiers, some who returned as heroes, others whose names now grace monuments, and countless whose sacrifices are untold but never forgotten”.
Radda commended the armed forces for their resilience and valor in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security challenges facing the nation, noting that the troops have played a vital role in patrolling rural communities, rescuing kidnap victims, securing schools and restoring hope to displaced families in Katsina State.
He disclosed that his administration has strengthened cooperation with security agencies through improved intelligence sharing, military assistance and welfare support for officers and their families, adding that the state government will continue to invest in community-based security initiatives to complement the efforts of the military and other security agencies.
Addressing the veterans, the Governor described their sacrifices as the foundation of Nigeria's peace, while also urging serving personnel to remain steadfast in their duty to safeguard the future of the country.
Radda said, “True remembrance is not limited to wreaths and silence. It calls for action to build a Nigeria worthy of their sacrifice, where peace is not just declared but maintained, and where justice, opportunity and dignity for all are guaranteed.”
The event included a flower laying ceremony and prayers for peace and security in the nation.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Faruk Lawal; Nasir Yahya Daura, Speaker of the State Assembly; Babatunde Omopariola, Commander, 17 Brigade Nigerian Army; a representative of the Emir of Katsina; Bello Shehu, Commissioner of Police; and CI Iloh, Commander, 213 Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Air Force.
Others present included Chairman of the Nigerian Army, Katsina Chapter, Ahmed Husseini; and representatives of widows of martyred heroes, among others.
