Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, on Tuesday, November 12, 2025, officially flagged off activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja.
The annual commemoration, themed “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” celebrates the courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of Nigeria’s soldiers, sailors, and airmen who have served, continue to serve, and those who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation’s unity and territorial integrity.
Speaking at the press briefing to announce the commencement of the event, the Minister described the Armed Forces Celebration as a time for “deep reflection, profound gratitude, and renewed commitment” to the ideals of national service.
“The liberty, peace, and stability we enjoy are secured daily through the courage and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform,” Abubakar said. “This celebration is not just ceremonial; it is a solemn national pledge of remembrance and gratitude.”
The Defence Minister lauded the professionalism and bravery of the Nigerian Armed Forces despite ongoing security challenges, highlighting their achievements in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and maritime security operations.
According to him, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Armed Forces have recorded significant operational successes. Over 13,000 terrorists and criminals have been neutralized, more than 17,000 were arrested, and nearly 10,000 hostages were rescued, while over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered in recent years.
He also disclosed that 1,900 illegal refining sites were destroyed in the South-South, reducing oil theft and maritime crimes. “These outcomes,” he said, “reflect improved synergy among the Services and underscore the President’s commitment to a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.”
Abubakar noted that the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023 marked a turning point in indigenous defence production, laying the foundation for Nigeria’s emergence as a regional hub for military technology. He added that ongoing modernization efforts—such as the procurement of Armoured Fighting Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and naval assets—have strengthened the country’s operational readiness.
Beyond equipment, the Minister emphasized that the “Soldier First” initiative remains the cornerstone of defence policy, with troop welfare at the centre. Measures include increased allowances, upgraded barracks, and healthcare investments such as the establishment of the Invictus Care Centre for wounded personnel and the upgrade of military hospitals.
The Ministry, he added, has disbursed ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and introduced the Debarment Allowance to improve veterans’ welfare. New digital tools—including a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre—are set to be launched during the celebration to enhance service delivery and grievance response.
As part of broader reforms, the Ministry is also reviewing the Nigerian Legion Act with plans to rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN), creating a stronger legal framework for veterans’ reintegration and benefits. Over 2,100 Civil War veterans who served on the Nigerian side have been newly enrolled for welfare support.
Looking ahead, the Minister announced a new initiative titled “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P)”, which will engage retired, able-bodied veterans to reinforce security and drive economic recovery in communities previously affected by insurgency.
In a symbolic innovation, the 2026 celebration will also introduce the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code. This digital platform enables Nigerians at home and abroad to send messages of appreciation and encouragement to serving troops and the families of fallen heroes.
Key events lined up for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day include:
National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: Wednesday, November 27, 2025
Special Jumaat Service: Friday, January 9, 2026
Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service: Sunday, January 11, 2026
Humanitarian Outreach and Family Day: Saturday, January 10, 2026
National Symposium: Monday, January 12, 2026
Gala and Fundraising Dinner: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Medical Outreach: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
National Wreath-Laying Ceremony: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Abubakar called on Nigerians to wear the Remembrance Emblem with pride, support the families of fallen heroes, and reflect on the unity and courage that define the nation’s Armed Forces.
“Let us honour our past, support our present, and secure our future,” he said. “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a stronger, safer, and more united Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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