President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday led top government officials to honour Nigeria’s fallen and serving military personnel at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Ceremony held in Abuja.

The ceremony commenced with the submission of the parade state by the parade commander. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President, thereafter inspected the guard of honour, accompanied by the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya.

A firing party later escorted dignitaries to the cenotaph for the laying of wreaths. The solemn atmosphere deepened as the “Last Post” was sounded in tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes, with all attendees standing in silent respect.

Special prayers were subsequently offered by an imam and a Christian chaplain for the repose of the souls of departed personnel and the protection of officers currently serving the nation. This was followed by a one-minute silence in honour of the fallen.

At about 10:35 a.m., wreath-laying began, led by the Vice President. Others who laid wreaths included the Senate President, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Minister of Defence, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and High Commissioner of Cameroon, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Inspector-General of Police, alongside other senior officials.

Following the wreath-laying, three volleys were fired by the firing party. The President later signed the anniversary register and released pigeons to symbolise peace and remembrance.

Dignitaries at the event included the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives; and members of the diplomatic corps.

Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, the Minister of Defence reaffirmed the importance of honouring fallen soldiers, wounded personnel, serving officers, and their families, stressing that the nation owes them enduring appreciation and support.

He noted that the commemoration has evolved beyond a single day, now spanning a week-long programme of activities. According to him, the Armed Forces Celebration recognises both those who are alive and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, making the observance more inclusive and meaningful.

The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to honour the sacrifices and dedication of Nigeria’s military personnel, both living and deceased.

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