Radda reaffirms Katsina’s support for security personnel on Armed Forces Remembrance Day

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained support for Nigeria’s security forces and the welfare of veterans, as well as to honouring fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.

He made the pledge on Thursday during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day parade and wreath-laying ceremony held at the Peoples Square, Katsina.

Describing the occasion as a solemn moment of reflection, Radda said the day was dedicated to celebrating the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of members of the armed forces who laid down their lives for Nigeria’s peace, unity and dignity.

Read also: Nigeria honours fallen heroes as Shettima, Akpabio lead Armed Forces Remembrance

He paid glowing tribute to both fallen heroes and living veterans, as well as active-duty personnel, whose commitment, he said, continues to shield the country from internal and external threats.

According to him, “In Katsina State, we hold this day with profound reverence. Our soil has known the footsteps of many gallant soldiers, some who returned as heroes, others whose names now grace memorials, and countless more whose sacrifices remain unspoken but never forgotten”.

Radda commended the armed forces for their resilience and heroism in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security challenges confronting the nation, noting that troops have played a critical role in patrolling rural communities, rescuing abducted victims, securing schools and restoring hope to displaced families across Katsina State.

He disclosed that his administration has strengthened collaboration with security agencies through improved intelligence sharing, logistical assistance and welfare support for officers and their families, saying further the state government will continue to invest in community-based security initiatives to complement the efforts of the military and other security agencies.

Addressing veterans, the Governor described their sacrifices as the foundation of Nigeria’s peace, while urging serving personnel to remain steadfast in their duty to safeguard the country’s future.

“True remembrance is not confined to wreaths and silence. It demands action to build a Nigeria worthy of their sacrifice, where peace is not just declared but lived, and where justice, opportunity and dignity are guaranteed for all,” Radda said.

The event featured wreath-laying ceremonies and prayers for peace and security in the nation.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included Faruk Lawal, Deputy Governor of Katsina State; Nasir Yahaya Daura, Speaker of the State House of Assembly; Babatunde Omopariola, Commander, 17 Brigade Nigerian Army; a representative of the Emir of Katsina; Bello Shehu, Commissioner of Police; and C.I. Illoh, Commander, 213 Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Air Force.

Others in attendance were Ahmed Hussaini, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Katsina Chapter; and representatives of widows of fallen heroes, among others.

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