Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria on Sunday observed the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with nationwide ceremonies honouring fallen military personnel and reaffirming the country’s commitment to unity, peace, and national security, Prime Business Africa reports.
Across the federation, military formations, state governments, and security stakeholders held interdenominational church services and prayer sessions in remembrance of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
‘Their Sacrifice Will Not Be in Vain’
At St. Andrew’s Military Church, Kontagora, the Commander, Corps of Artillery (CCA), Major General John Olusegun Adeyemo, assured that the sacrifices of fallen heroes would not be in vain.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelDelivering the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, Adeyemo charged military personnel to remain committed, professional, and resolute in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, particularly within the context of an increasingly sensitive operational environment.
He emphasised the central role of the Nigerian Army in sustaining national cohesion, noting that honouring fallen heroes must go hand-in-hand with strengthening unity to effectively address security challenges and ensure regional stability.
In his sermon, Chaplain Roman Catholic Captain Reverend Father Victor Owah reflected on the 2026 theme, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” drawing lessons from Joshua 1:1–7. He urged Nigerians to promote peace and unity from the home front, stressing that personal discipline and commitment are essential to national security.
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Photos: Nigeria Marks Armed Forces Remembrance Day
Special intercessory prayers were offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, service chiefs, and military families, seeking divine guidance for a peaceful and productive year.
States Join Nationwide Commemoration
In Rivers State, Simi Fubara joined worshippers at St. Cyprian’s Anglican Church, Port Harcourt, to honour fallen soldiers and express confidence in the attainment of enduring peace despite prevailing security challenges.
Kaduna State recorded a major observance at St. Peter’s Catholic Military Church, Ribadu Cantonment, organised by Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army. Representing Governor Uba Sani, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister (Dr) James Atung Kanyip, praised the Armed Forces for their courage and sacrifices, while reaffirming the state government’s support for serving personnel and families of fallen heroes.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed Wase, was represented by the Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, who described the service as reassurance to families that their loved ones are neither forgotten nor unappreciated.
In Benin City, Edo State, the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, alongside the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, 107 Air Maritime Group, the Military Hospital, and members of the Nigerian Legion, held an interdenominational service. Delivering the sermon, Lieutenant Colonel (Rev) MS Dallys spoke on the theme “Celebration of Victory and Remembrance of the Fallen Heroes,” offering prayers for the continued success of the Armed Forces.
The 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support) in Gombe also marked the day with a special service at Saint Paul’s Military Church. The Commander, Colonel SO Beke, reminded officers and soldiers that their dedication and sacrifices would not be in vain. In his message, Captain Rev Joseph Jesse Solomon encouraged troops to remain courageous, faithful, and loyal, citing Joshua 1:9.
In Taraba State, Governor Agbu Kefas attended an interdenominational service at the Anglican Cathedral of Mayo Dassa, Jalingo, urging officers in active service to remain disciplined and united. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace and security, attributing the state’s relative stability to sustained security efforts.
Similarly, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde was represented at a remembrance service, where the state government restated its resolve to collaborate with security agencies to create a safe, secure, and investment-friendly environment.
Here are photos from different states across Nigeria :
Minister of Defence Joins National Observance
In Abuja, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), participated in activities marking the occasion at the TYB International Golf Resort. He described the day as a solemn national moment dedicated to recognising the courage and sacrifices of serving and fallen personnel.
The minister commended President Tinubu for his support for the Armed Forces and praised the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for ensuring troops remain adequately equipped and mission-ready. He also called on Nigerians to support the Armed Forces by providing timely intelligence and cooperating with security agencies.
A Nation Reflects
From Awka to Port Harcourt, Gombe to Jalingo, the observance of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day underscored a shared national resolve to honour fallen heroes, support serving personnel, and uphold the values of unity, sacrifice, and patriotism.
The ceremonies concluded with hymns, prayers, and group photographs, reinforcing Nigeria’s collective commitment to peace, security, and national unity.
The main event is scheduled for January 15 at the Eagle Square, Abuja and across the 36 states of the federation.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
