Armed Forces Remembrance Day: FG and governors pay tribute to fallen soldiers and reaffirm commitment to troop welfare and national security
The Federal Government and state governors on Sunday paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s military personnel as the country marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, honouring soldiers who lost their lives defending the nation’s unity, peace, and territorial integrity.
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The commemorations, held across the country, featured interdenominational church services attended by political leaders, military commanders, and senior government officials.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, honours members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who died during the civil war, internal security operations, and peacekeeping missions abroad.
Speaking at a church service in Abuja, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the sacrifices of fallen soldiers remained the bedrock of Nigeria’s unity, peace, and progress.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Nwebonyi, Akpabio said the Federal Government and the National Assembly were committed to restoring Nigeria as one of Africa’s most peaceful and secure nations.
He described the courage of the armed forces as a powerful reminder of the nation’s responsibility to build a safer and more united country.
Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, said President Bola Tinubu remained committed to equipping, motivating, and caring for members of the armed forces and other security agencies.
General Musa acknowledged the security challenges confronting the country but expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome them through sustained commitment and resilience.
In Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji praised the military for paying the ultimate price to uphold Nigeria’s dignity and global standing.
Represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye at a service in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji said the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was designed to honour courage, patriotism, and sacrifice, especially for soldiers who were killed, injured, or permanently disabled in service.
He described the day as a solemn reminder that peace and freedom were earned through sweat, blood, and sacrifice.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also paid tribute to serving, retired, and fallen military personnel at a service in Akure, describing the armed forces as a formidable institution with unmatched resilience.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, Aiyedatiwa said fallen soldiers deserved a special place of honour for preserving Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.
Military commanders also used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to troop welfare.
The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, said the army remained focused on improving welfare and strengthening support for families of fallen soldiers.
Represented by Brigadier General Rahpeal Okoroji at a service in Gingiya Barracks, Ajose said caring for serving personnel and their families was essential to sustaining morale and operational effectiveness.
He assured that the Federal Government and the army high command remained committed to improving living conditions, healthcare, logistics, training, and post-service benefits for military personnel.
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Across the country, the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day served as a poignant moment of reflection and a renewed pledge by leaders to honour fallen heroes through action, support, and unwavering commitment to national security.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
