Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony held at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier, Eagle Square, Abuja.
The President was absent from the solemn national event because he is currently in the United Arab Emirates, where he is attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
Why the Ceremony Matters
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is an annual programme organised by the Ministry of Defence to honour Nigerian soldiers who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
Those remembered include:
- Soldiers who died in the First and Second World Wars
- Fallen heroes of the Nigerian Civil War
- Troops lost during peacekeeping missions abroad
- Personnel killed in internal security operations, especially the ongoing war against terrorism
Beyond remembrance, the event also celebrates living veterans, while serving as a platform to mobilise financial and moral support for wounded soldiers and the families of fallen officers.
Why January 15 Is Special to Nigeria
While many countries observe Remembrance Day on November 11, Nigeria chose January 15 to reflect its own national history.
As a former Commonwealth nation, Nigeria initially marked Remembrance Day on November 11, commemorating the end of World War I in 1918. However, January 15 was later adopted to honour the end of the Nigerian Civil War, making the remembrance more locally meaningful.
A Ceremony Held Amid Security Gains
The 2026 AFCRD comes at a time when Nigeria’s Armed Forces have recorded notable security gains, particularly in the North-East and other troubled regions.
The ceremony served as a moment to:
- Recognise the bravery and professionalism of Nigerian troops
- Honour officers and men still risking their lives daily
- Reaffirm the government’s commitment to national security
Federal Government’s Message to Nigerians
At the event, the Federal Government once again expressed deep appreciation to members of the Armed Forces and urged Nigerians, corporate bodies and private organisations to continue supporting:
- Serving soldiers
- Wounded officers
- Families of fallen heroes
The remembrance period, officials stressed, should go beyond ceremonies and translate into real support and care for those who defend the nation.
Bottom Line
With President Tinubu away on an international engagement, Vice President Shettima’s presence underscored the importance of the day — a reminder that Nigeria’s freedom and unity have come at a heavy price.
As the country reflects on its past and present security challenges, the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day stands as a powerful call for unity, gratitude and continued support for Nigeria’s gallant men and women in uniform.
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