By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing adequate support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria while honouring the nation’s fallen heroes and celebrating service, sacrifice and excellence, as the Armed Forces hosted the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Regimental Dinner Night in Abuja.
The Regimental Dinner Night, held on Tuesday at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Asokoro, brought together senior military leaders, officers and men in an atmosphere defined by solemn remembrance, rich military tradition and deep camaraderie. The event formed part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, a key moment in Nigeria’s military calendar.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR (Rtd), who represented the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, described the occasion as far more than a ceremonial gathering. He said the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day represents the very heartbeat of Nigeria’s military heritage, symbolising honour, duty, sacrifice and national service.
The Minister noted that the event provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the professionalism, courage and resilience of serving officers and men of the Armed Forces, while also solemnly remembering the fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty. He stressed that Nigerian troops continue to confront complex asymmetric threats with remarkable courage and professionalism, often under extremely demanding conditions, adding that the peace and security enjoyed by the nation are direct outcomes of their vigilance, sacrifice and unwavering dedication.
Paying glowing tribute to fallen officers and soldiers, General Musa said their names are etched not only on monuments but deeply within the fabric of Nigeria’s national consciousness. He also commended the families of the fallen, describing them as silent pillars of national sacrifice whose strength, courage and resilience continue to inspire the nation.
Reassuring serving personnel, the Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to improving troops’ welfare, logistics support and operational capacity. He emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in ensuring that the Armed Forces are adequately equipped, motivated and fully supported to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities in defence of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, described the Regimental Dinner Night as one of the Armed Forces’ most cherished traditions, combining solemn remembrance with fellowship, discipline and pride in the profession of arms. He commended the gallantry and sacrifices of Nigerian troops across the various theatres of operation, noting that their professionalism has continued to strengthen civil-military relations and restore public confidence in the Armed Forces.
The CDS also acknowledged the critical role played by military families, whose unwavering support, he said, remains a cornerstone of morale and operational effectiveness. He stressed that the sacrifices made by families on the home front are integral to the success of military operations nationwide.
General Oluyede further underscored the importance of a whole-of-society approach to national security, calling for sustained collaboration among the Armed Forces, other security agencies and local communities in tackling terrorism and other threats to peace, stability and democracy.
The highlight of the Regimental Dinner Night included the presentation of medals and awards to deserving senior officers in recognition of exceptional leadership, gallantry, meritorious service and outstanding contributions to the defence and security of Nigeria, reinforcing the Armed Forces’ enduring values of honour, excellence and selfless service.
