By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their unwavering sacrifice, courage and professionalism in confronting security challenges and safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty.
Governor Kefas made the commendation during the wreath-laying ceremony marking the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026, held at the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo, Taraba State.
He expressed profound appreciation to officers and men of the Armed Forces who paid the ultimate price in the service of peace, stability and national cohesion.
He described AFCRD as a solemn national observance dedicated to honouring fallen heroes, reflecting on their sacrifices, and reaffirming the commitment of government and society to the families they left behind.
“We remember our fallen heroes men and women who laid down their lives so that Nigeria might stand strong and endure.
“Their sacrifices were quiet, painful and often unrecognised.
“Their courage was not for applause, but for national survival – he said.
He further praised serving personnel of the Armed Forces for their resilience and steadfast commitment to peace and security across the country.
He noted that AFCRD also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge officers and soldiers currently in active service who continue to demonstrate courage, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
The ceremony featured the inspection of the guard of honour by the Special Guest of Honour, the laying of wreaths in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, the sounding of the reveille, and the ceremonial release of pigeons, symbolising peace, freedom and the collective aspiration for enduring national unity.
Dignitaries at the event included the Wife of the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Mrs. Agyin Kefas; the Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke; the Speaker and members of the Taraba State House of Assembly; top government officials; heads of security and intelligence agencies; senior military officers, serving and retired; traditional rulers; members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) led by the Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Rachael Uwa; members of the Nigerian Legion; veterans, and other invited guests.