The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations officially commenced on Friday, January 9, with special Juma’at prayers held at the National Mosque in Abuja and across the 36 states of the Federation.
This year’s celebration, themed “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” is designed to recognize the professionalism and ultimate sacrifices made by the Nigerian military in defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
According to a schedule released by Mrs. Bosede Olaniyi, Chairperson of the National Planning Committee and Director of Joint Services at the Ministry of Defence, the week-long event features a series of religious, humanitarian, and official ceremonies leading up to the grand finale on January 15.
Following Friday’s Juma’at services, the activities continue on Saturday, January 10, with a nationwide humanitarian outreach. Military personnel will engage with families and communities at various barracks, including the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, starting at 10:00 am.
On Sunday, January 11, an Interdenominational Church Service will be held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, at 2:00 pm, with simultaneous services in designated military churches across the country.
The mid-week program includes:
- Monday, Jan 12: A National Symposium at the National Defence College, Abuja, titled “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development.”
- Tuesday, Jan 13: A Gala and Award Night at the Presidential Villa Banquet Hall to honor distinguished personnel and veterans.
The celebrations will culminate on Thursday, January 15, with the National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade, Abuja. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to lead service chiefs, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Nigerian Legion in laying wreaths. The ceremony will be marked by a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the “Last Post,” and a national minute of silence to honor the fallen.
The Ministry of Defence noted that the 2026 program aims to foster national pride and provide a moment of reflection on the cost of peace and the enduring bravery of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
