Damaturu—In a solemn yet hopeful ceremony that blended remembrance with renewed resolve, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening security and backing the nation’s armed forces and allied agencies.
Speaking during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day observance in the state capital, Governor Buni led tributes to Nigeria’s fallen heroes—men and women who laid down their lives in defence of the nation’s unity and peace. He described their sacrifice as the bedrock upon which today’s fragile but growing stability stands.
The governor recalled the dark years when insurgency held many communities hostage, stressing that Yobe’s present calm is the product of shared sacrifice—by the military, other security formations, local vigilantes, and resilient citizens who refused to surrender their communities to fear.
“Peace is not accidental; it is earned and protected together,” he said, urging residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible intelligence to security operatives. According to him, community cooperation remains a decisive weapon against crime and extremism.
Governor Buni praised the courage and professionalism of troops on the frontlines, as well as the commitment of community volunteers who complement official security efforts. He assured that safeguarding lives and property would continue to top his administration’s agenda, with sustained investment in logistics, welfare, and collaboration across security institutions.
In his remarks, Lieutenant Goji Birma (Rtd), Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Yobe State Chapter, applauded the state government for its consistent support to veterans and their families, while noting that funding constraints remain a major hurdle to expanding welfare programmes.
The ceremony reached a symbolic high point when Governor Buni released white doves into the sky—an emblem of peace, hope, and renewal. The state government also announced plans to roll out vocational training initiatives for widows and orphans of fallen service members, aimed at empowering them with skills for sustainable livelihoods.
As the bugle sounded and wreaths were laid, the message from Damaturu was clear: Yobe remembers its heroes—and remains steadfast in protecting the peace they fought to secure.
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