FG Honours Fallen Heroes, Celebrates Military Gains Against Insecurity
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday attended the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony at the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier, Eagle Square, Abuja.
Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026.
The annual event, organised by the Ministry of Defence, is dedicated to honouring members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation.
Those remembered include personnel who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and various internal security operations, particularly the ongoing fight against terrorism and other threats to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
Beyond commemorating fallen heroes, the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day also recognises living veterans and serves as a platform to mobilise financial and moral support for their welfare, as well as for the families of deceased service members.
While the event is observed in several countries around the world, Nigeria’s commemoration reflects its unique historical journey.
As a Commonwealth nation, Nigeria initially marked Remembrance Day on November 11, in line with other member states, to honour victims of the World Wars. The date symbolised the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the end of the First World War in 1918.
However, January 15 was later adopted to coincide with the end of the Nigerian Civil War and to better reflect Nigeria’s national experience.
The 2026 edition of the AFCRD carries added significance, coming amid reported operational successes by the Armed Forces in the North-East and other regions of the country.
The occasion therefore provides an opportunity to acknowledge the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and men confronting Nigeria’s security challenges to ensure peace and stability for citizens.
The Federal Government reiterated its deep appreciation to members of the Armed Forces and called on Nigerians, corporate organisations, and the private sector to continue supporting serving personnel, wounded soldiers, and the families of fallen heroes during the remembrance period and beyond.
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