Esther Oseyiomon
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as the nation marked the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) in Abuja.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the national ceremony, joined Nigerians in honouring fallen officers and soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of the country. The solemn event was held at the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier at the National Arcade, Abuja.
In a commemorative message, Tinubu described the fallen heroes as the foundation of Nigeria’s peace, freedom and unity, stressing that their sacrifices continue to shape the nation’s survival and collective identity.
In a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, the President assured serving personnel of sustained government support, noting that national security rests on the courage, professionalism and patriotism of the Armed Forces.
He emphasised that Armed Forces Remembrance Day goes beyond symbolism, describing it as a national obligation to honour sacrifice and preserve the country’s moral conscience. According to him, a nation that forgets its heroes risks losing its sense of purpose and direction.
President Tinubu also paid glowing tribute to the families of fallen service members, acknowledging the pain borne by widows, children and relatives, and assuring them that Nigeria remains eternally grateful for the ultimate price paid by their loved ones.
Commending troops across all formations, the President praised their discipline, resilience and sacrifice in safeguarding lives and property across land, sea and air, often under challenging conditions and prolonged separation from their families.
January 15 is observed annually as Armed Forces Remembrance Day to mark the end of the Nigerian Civil War and reflect the country’s unique historical journey, replacing the former November 11 observance tied to Commonwealth tradition.
The 2026 ceremony came amid reports of improved military operations in the North-East and other security flashpoints, signalling renewed momentum in the fight against insecurity nationwide.
Dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, representing Speaker Tajudeen Abbas; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Service Chiefs, senior military officers, diplomats and representatives of the Nigerian Legion.
The ceremony featured wreath-laying, artillery salutes, the firing of volleys, a minute of silence and the release of pigeons symbolising peace and national unity. It concluded with prayers for the fallen heroes, renewed strength for the Armed Forces and lasting peace across Nigeria.