Kebbi State Raises ₦80 Million for Legionnaires, Families of Fallen Heroes at 2026 Remembrance Day Launch

Kebbi State has mobilised ₦80 million in support of legionnaires and families of fallen heroes during the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held in Birnin Kebbi. The fundraising event, attended by government officials, traditional rulers, security agencies and members of the Nigerian Legion, underscored the state’s commitment to honouring those who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

Governor Nasir Idris, who addressed the gathering, described the Remembrance Day programme as one of the most meaningful initiatives of his administration. He said the peace and stability Nigeria continues to enjoy are direct results of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes across generations.

“Last year, we launched this programme, and it is very dear to us. All of us here are beneficiaries of the sacrifices and commitment of our fallen heroes,” the governor said. “I am personally a beneficiary of their sacrifices. Without them, we would not be here today.”

Governor Idris assured members of the Nigerian Legion that the state government would sustain and enhance its support, particularly in the areas of land allocation, Hajj seats, and welfare packages for families of deceased service members. He noted that the government had taken note of the legion’s request for land and pledged equal treatment regarding Hajj seat allocations. He emphasised that the state would continue to prioritise the welfare of widows and dependants of fallen soldiers.

During the ceremony, Governor Idris announced a ₦50 million donation on behalf of the state government and an additional ₦10 million contribution from himself and his family. Other dignitaries and organisations also made contributions, bringing the total amount raised to ₦80 million.

Earlier in his remarks, the Acting Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Kebbi State, Ahmed Shehu, said the annual Remembrance Day celebration serves not only to honour fallen heroes but also to show solidarity with soldiers currently serving in conflict zones. He reaffirmed the legion’s commitment to preserving the memory of those who died in the line of duty, noting their sacrifices during national and international peacekeeping operations.

Shehu disclosed that the ₦50 million donated by the state government in 2025 had been transparently utilised, with widows of fallen heroes benefiting from various support initiatives. He added that each participant at the 2025 remembrance ceremony received ₦50,000. He commended the state government for the provision of Hajj seats to legion members last year and appealed for increased slots in 2026. He also declared that more than 20,000 members of the Nigerian Legion in the state are fully aligned with the governor’s development agenda.

The event drew widespread support from government institutions, traditional councils and local organisations. Members of the State Executive Council donated ₦5 million; the Secretary to the State Government gave ₦500,000; the Yauri, Argungu and Zuru emirates collectively contributed ₦1.5 million; and the Gwandu Emirate added ₦1 million. Additional contributions came from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (₦500,000), the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (₦10.5 million), and the Association of Special Advisers (₦1 million), among others.

The fundraising effort, described as one of the most successful in recent years, reinforces Kebbi State’s pledge to uphold the legacy of Nigeria’s fallen heroes while continuing to support their families and colleagues still serving the nation.