By Nkechi Eze
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Thursday, 15 January 2026, led the nation in a solemn act of remembrance for Nigeria’s fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026 ceremony held at the National Cenotaph, Eagle Square, Abuja.
The deeply reflective ceremony served as a powerful moment of national gratitude, honouring officers and men of the Armed Forces and security services who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s peace, unity and sovereignty. In a setting marked by dignity and reverence, the nation paused to remember the courage, patriotism and selflessness of those who laid down their lives in service to the fatherland.
President Tinubu was represented at the occasion by the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, who laid a wreath on behalf of the President in honour of the fallen heroes. The symbolic gesture underscored the President’s resolve to continually recognise and uphold the memory of gallant personnel whose sacrifices remain the bedrock of the nation’s security and stability.
In a show of unity and shared commitment, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, joined the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM, alongside other Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, to lay wreaths in tribute to the nation’s heroes. The collective act reflected the Armed Forces’ enduring dedication to the ideals of patriotism, loyalty and unwavering service to Nigeria.
The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of national leaders and stakeholders, including the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun; the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR; and other members of the Federal Executive Council. Also in attendance were heads of security agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, senior serving and retired military officers, members of the Nigerian Legion and other eminent guests.
Together, they paid heartfelt tribute to the men and women whose ultimate sacrifice continues to inspire national resolve, collective remembrance and renewed commitment to safeguarding the nation. The AFCRD 2026 ceremony once again reaffirmed Nigeria’s pledge never to forget its fallen heroes and to continue honouring their legacy with gratitude and pride.
