Senator Kashim Shettima, the vice president, is present at events commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration Day, or AFCRD, at the Unknown Soldier cenotaph in Eagle Square, Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu, who is presently in the United Arab Emirates for Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, ADSW, 2026, is being represented by the Vice President.
The Ministry of Defence hosts the Armed Forces Celebration Day every year to remember fallen heroes who gave their lives while serving their country.
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The Ministry of Defence hosts the AFCRD every year to remember fallen heroes who gave their lives while serving their country.
These include soldiers who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and other internal security conflicts, especially the continuous battle against terrorism that jeopardises Nigeria’s business survival.
In addition to commemorating departed military members, the event honours active veterans and provides a forum for raising money and emotional support for their well-being.
Nigeria’s commemoration of the Armed Forces Celebration Day reflects its distinct historical experience, even if it is recognised worldwide.
As a member of the Commonwealth, Nigeria previously marked Armed forces Remembrance Day on November 11, in line with other member states, to honour those who died in the World Wars.
The date, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marks the official end of the First World War in 1918.
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However, January 15 was later adopted to commemorate the end of the Nigerian Civil War and to reflect national realities.
The Armed Forces’ documented victories in the Northeast and other regions of the nation make the 2026 AFCRD more noteworthy. Therefore, in order to allow Nigerians to live in peace, it is an opportunity to especially recognise the bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices made by the officers and men facing the country’s security issues.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its unwavering thanks to these brave Nigerians and urged the public, corporate sector, and organisations to generously help service members, particularly the injured and the families of dead heroes, both during and after the memorial period.
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A Symbol of Peace and Unity
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima @officialSKSM, in company of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio @SPNigeria; the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives,… https://t.co/6DJbsomvNi pic.twitter.com/r9u8OqgdXC
— Stanley Nkwocha (@stanleynkwocha_) January 15, 2026
