President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led Vice President Kashim Shettima, state governors, and other senior government officials in honouring Nigeria’s fallen military heroes, assuring that their sacrifices in defending the nation’s unity, peace, and sovereignty will never be forgotten.
The Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day is an annual national event organised by the Ministry of Defence to recognise and honour officers and personnel who lost their lives while serving Nigeria. These include those who died during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and various internal security operations, particularly the ongoing fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national stability.
Beyond honouring the dead, the event also celebrates living veterans and provides an avenue for financial and moral support for retired personnel, widows, dependents, and families of fallen service members.
Although observed globally, Nigeria’s remembrance carries a unique historical significance. As a Commonwealth nation, the country previously marked Remembrance Day on November 11, alongside other member states, in honour of soldiers who died during the World Wars. Over time, Nigeria adapted the observance to reflect its own military history and contemporary security realities.
In his official message, President Tinubu stated that Armed Forces Remembrance Day remains a solemn moment for national reflection. He emphasised that while the names of many fallen heroes may not be widely known, their courage continues to sustain the nation’s freedom and stability. According to him, any country that forgets those who gave their lives in its defence risks losing its sense of purpose, adding that Nigeria remains committed to remembrance.
Addressing the families of fallen soldiers, the President acknowledged the depth of their loss and assured them that the nation remains grateful for the ultimate sacrifice made by their loved ones in the service of a united Nigeria. He stressed that their bravery and selflessness would always be remembered by Nigerians.
President Tinubu also paid tribute to serving military personnel across all branches, recognising their professionalism, discipline, and courage in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity on land, sea, and air. He reaffirmed, as Commander-in-Chief, his administration’s resolve to prioritise their welfare, noting that national security depends on the strength and morale of those entrusted with the country’s defence.
Governors Pay Tribute Across States
Across the federation, state governors and their representatives participated in remembrance ceremonies, laying wreaths and reaffirming support for the Armed Forces and families of fallen heroes.
In Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, assured continued state support for security agencies in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Speaking at the Remembrance Arcade at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island, he emphasised that the sacrifices of fallen heroes would always be honoured and that government commitment to their families remained unwavering.
Similarly, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, during the ceremony at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, reiterated his administration’s determination to strengthen security architecture in the state. He noted that sustained peace and security are essential for economic development and social stability.
In Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the approval and release of ₦50 million for interest-free microcredit loans to widows and dependents of fallen heroes in 2026. Speaking at the Government Cenotaph in Akure, he explained that the initiative, now a regular feature of the annual remembrance, would continue regardless of economic conditions to support beneficiaries’ livelihoods.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led service commanders, security chiefs, and top government officials in laying wreaths at the Cenotaph in Asaba. The ceremony was attended by the deputy governor, speaker of the state assembly, chief judge, and senior military and police officials.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, speaking at the Haliru Abdu Stadium, assured serving and retired military personnel that they would not be abandoned, acknowledging their role as the backbone of national unity and security.
In Sokoto State, Governor Ahmed Aliyu reaffirmed that the sacrifices of fallen heroes would never be compromised, describing their service as fundamental to Nigeria’s continued existence. He said the annual remembrance also serves as a renewed commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in combating terrorism and banditry.
In Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his deputy, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, led officials and veterans in laying wreaths in Jos. The ceremony included interdenominational prayers, a minute of silence, the symbolic release of pigeons to signify peace, and a three-gun salute in honour of the Unknown Soldier.
Political Reactions
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) criticised President Tinubu’s absence from the ceremony, describing it as concerning amid Nigeria’s security challenges. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party argued that the physical presence of the Commander-in-Chief carries strong moral and symbolic importance for troops and military families.
Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faulted the Federal Government over what it described as inadequate welfare and funding for the Armed Forces. In a statement by factional National Chairman Kabiru Turaki, the party urged improved welfare packages and increased funding for security agencies to effectively tackle insecurity nationwide.
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