By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day activities commenced on Friday, January 9, with special Juma’at prayers held at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states and in all military formations nationwide.
The Ministry of Defence, in a statement signed by Iheoma-Hart Queeneth, Chief Information Officer, for the Sub-Committee on Publicity, said the week-long programme is themed “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” underscoring the professionalism, courage and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the service of the nation.
According to the programme released by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mrs. Bosede Olaniyi, who is also the Director of Joint Services at the Ministry of Defence, the opening prayers were dedicated to fallen heroes, serving personnel and national peace, with sermons focusing on sacrifice, unity and patriotism. Dignitaries, including the President, governors, service chiefs, senior government officials and veterans, are expected to participate in various activities.
”On Saturday, January 10, humanitarian outreach programmes as well as family and community activities will be held in major military barracks nationwide, including Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, and at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters.
”The celebrations will continue on Sunday, January 11, with a special thanksgiving and interdenominational church service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, as well as military and designated churches across the states.
”A national symposium and lecture series themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development” is scheduled for Monday, January 12, at the National Defence College, Abuja,” Olaniyi revealed.
He added,”On Tuesday, January 13, a gala and award night will take place at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to honour outstanding contributions and service, while the red carpet is slated for 5pm ahead of the main event.
”The climax of the celebrations will be on Thursday, January 15, 2026, which marks Armed Forces Remembrance Day. Activities will include a national wreath-laying ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously in state capitals across the country.”
Highlights of the Remembrance Day ceremony include wreath-laying by the President, Vice-President, Service Chiefs and members of the Diplomatic Corps, a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, a minute of silence, and a parade by personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Legionnaires.
The Ministry noted that the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Week is designed to honour fallen heroes, celebrate courage, foster national unity and showcase the professionalism and humanity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
