Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria on Thursday observed Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day with a solemn ceremony at the National Arcade, Abuja, honouring soldiers who have fallen in service to the nation, Prime Business Africa reports.
President Bola Tinubu, currently abroad, was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led top government officials, military commanders, diplomats, and veterans’ representatives in paying tribute.
The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony, a military parade, and the traditional three-volley gun salute in memory of fallen heroes. Shettima laid the first wreath, followed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu on behalf of the Speaker, and Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. Others who participated included Defence Minister Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede, the Service Chiefs, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and representatives of military widows and veterans.
At the close of the ceremony, the vice president signed the anniversary register and released ceremonial pigeons, symbolising national peace and unity.
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The commemoration followed a week-long programme, including interfaith prayer services, a defence symposium, medical outreach to veterans and their families, and award events for soldiers organised by the Defence Headquarters. The annual event, previously known as Armed Forces Remembrance Day, was renamed Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day to recognise both fallen and serving personnel.
Political leaders and corporate organisations also paid tribute. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed gratitude to both fallen and serving troops, noting their courage, discipline, and commitment to national unity.
Former Governor Peter Obi called for leadership that honours the sacrifices of soldiers, urging Nigerians to live lives that promote peace and progress. Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, also saluted the Armed Forces for safeguarding the country’s land, skies, and collective future.
Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to mark the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970 and to honour military personnel who died during World Wars, civil conflicts, peacekeeping missions, and ongoing internal security operations. The day also serves as an occasion to support living veterans and the families of fallen heroes.
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.
