The Gombe State Government and the 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support) on Thursday commemorated the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with a dual program of traditional military honours and a landmark community medical outreach.
The events, held at Pantami Stadium, were designed to honour servicemen and women who lost their lives in the World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and various global peacekeeping operations.
Civil-Military Cooperation
In a departure from previous years, the 301 Artillery Regiment (GS) integrated a free medical outreach into the official program. Colonel Suobor Omomoimi Beke, Commander of the 301 Artillery Regiment, stated that the initiative aimed to move beyond ceremonial tributes by providing tangible service to the host community.
The outreach was a collaborative effort involving the Mother Hen Development Foundation, Defence Health Maintenance Limited, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, and several other health and humanitarian organizations.
Government Commitment
Representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Deputy Governor Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau reaffirmed the state’s dedication to the welfare of the families left behind by fallen soldiers. He called for continued institutional support for widows and dependents, emphasizing that their sacrifice must be met with sustained care.
Calls for Veteran Support
The Chairman of the Nigerian Legion’s Gombe State Chapter, Master Warrant Officer Umar Buba Modibbo, used the occasion to advocate for two key initiatives:
- Education: The establishment of a Command Secondary School in Gombe to support the children of deceased personnel.
- Economic Empowerment: Increased investment in agricultural programs specifically designed for military widows.
Ceremonial Highlights
The 2026 commemoration concluded with the traditional wreath-laying ceremony, a colorful military parade, and a gun salute. To signify a commitment to national harmony, pigeons were released to symbolize peace and tranquility.
The event was officially documented by Lieutenant Kingsley Dominic Ugwuoke, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 301 Artillery Regiment.
