…As military vows to defend Nigeria’s democracy
Vice-President Kashim Shettima yesterday led senior government officials, military chiefs and members of the diplomatic corps in honouring Nigeria’s fallen heroes at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Ceremony held in Abuja.
The ceremony commenced with the submission of the parade state by the parade commander, followed by an inspection of the guard of honour by the Vice-President, who represented President Bola Tinubu, alongside the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier-General Adebisi Onasanya.
A firing party later escorted dignitaries to the cenotaph, where the Last Post was sounded, and a minute of silence observed in memory of soldiers who died in the line of duty. Special prayers were offered by an Imam and a Christian chaplain for the repose of the fallen and the protection of serving personnel.
The wreath-laying ceremony began at 10:35 a.m., with Shettima laying the first wreath. Others included the Senate President, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa; the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Cameroon’s High Commissioner, Salaheddine Ibrahima; the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede; the Service Chiefs, and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
The event was marked by the firing of three volleys by the firing party. President Tinubu later signed the anniversary register and released pigeons, symbolising peace and remembrance.
Other dignitaries present included the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; National Security Adviser, Nuhu RibaÉ—u; and members of the diplomatic community.
Speaking after the ceremony, the Minister of Defence stressed the need to continually honour both fallen and serving soldiers and to support their families. He noted that the observance has been expanded into a week-long Armed Forces Celebration to recognise living heroes while remembering those who paid the supreme price.
Meanwhile, at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day regimental dinner, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Olufemi Oluyede reaffirmed the military’s commitment to confronting terrorism, criminality and all threats to Nigeria’s democracy. He said the Armed Forces remain resolute, but emphasised that national security requires a ‘whole-of-society’ approach, including strong partnerships with local communities and other security agencies.
Oluyede noted that despite daunting challenges, Nigerian troops have continued to prevail and win public confidence through professionalism and sacrifice. He said the remembrance activities serve as a moment to honour fallen heroes, strengthen comradeship within the Armed Forces and renew dedication to service.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to commemorate the bravery, sacrifice and enduring legacy of Nigeria’s military personnel.
