President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes and restated his administration’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces as the nation marked the Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day.
In a personally signed statement released on Thursday, the president reflected on the sacrifices made by officers and soldiers who gave their lives in defence of the country.
Tinubu honoured the courage and selflessness of the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who, according to him, paid the ultimate price to secure the nation’s peace and freedom. He noted that while history may not always record their individual names, their bravery remains the foundation upon which Nigeria’s stability rests.
“Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace. A nation that forgets its fallen heroes loses its direction; Nigeria, however, remembers,” the president said.
He extended his message to the families left behind, recognising the pain endured by widows, children and relatives of fallen service members. Tinubu acknowledged that no words could truly compensate for their loss but assured them that the nation remains grateful for the sacrifices of their loved ones.
“I also speak today to the families of our fallen heroes—widows, children, and loved ones. Your loss is profound, and no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones. They served Nigeria with honour, and our people will never forget their sacrifices,” he stated.
While reflecting on those who had fallen, the president also praised officers currently serving in the Armed Forces, commending their discipline, professionalism and courage in the face of constant danger. He noted that many of them continue to protect the country across land, sea and air, often at great personal cost and far from their families.
“Today, we celebrate our serving personnel. From the frontlines to support positions, on land, sea, and air, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting our people and sovereignty with discipline, courage, and professionalism, often far from home,” Tinubu said.
Reaffirming his role as Commander-in-Chief, the president pledged continued commitment to the welfare and dignity of the Armed Forces, stressing that national security depends on how well those defending the country are supported.
“As President and Commander-in-Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it. We will continue to support them in action,” he added.
President Tinubu was represented at the Abuja ceremonies by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The event also drew several top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Benjamin Kalu and Minister of Defence Christopher Musa.
The dignitaries were led in a solemn procession by soldiers to the cenotaph, where wreaths were laid in honour of fallen service members. Special prayers were offered for both the living and the dead who fought for national unity and global peace. The prayers were led by Colonel Rev. B.P. Nyam of the Army Chaplain Services, Group Captain H. Idris of the Air Force Islamic Affairs, and Navy Captain Very Rev. Fr. R.C. Diala of the Roman Catholic Chaplain Services.
A minute of silence followed the prayers to honour the fallen heroes, after which an artillery gun was fired in their memory. The ceremony continued with the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, symbolising the nation’s collective gratitude to those whose sacrifices remain unnamed.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration is observed every year on January 15. It serves as a national moment of reflection to honour veterans of the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and members of the Armed Forces who have laid down their lives in service to the country.
What you should know
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a significant national event dedicated to honouring Nigerian military personnel who died in active service.
Observed annually on January 15, it commemorates veterans of global and local conflicts, including the Nigerian Civil War.
The ceremony often features wreath-laying, prayers, and military honours at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, reinforcing national appreciation for the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and highlighting ongoing commitments to their welfare and professionalism.
