Vice President Kashim Shettima stood in for President Bola Tinubu at the solemn 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony held at the National Cenotaph in Eagle Square, Abuja. This marks the second year in a row that Shettima has represented the Commander-in-Chief at this pivotal national event.
A Solemn Duty in the President's Absence
President Bola Tinubu was engaged in diplomatic duties abroad, participating in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026 in the United Arab Emirates. In his stead, Vice President Shettima led the nation in paying respects to the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who have died in the line of duty. The event, meticulously organised by the Ministry of Defence, serves as the nation's foremost platform for honouring its military sacrifices.
Honouring Sacrifice From World Wars to Present Conflicts
The AFCRD commemorates the ultimate price paid by service personnel across Nigeria's history. This includes those who fell during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, numerous peacekeeping missions abroad, and internal security operations. A significant focus remains on those lost in the ongoing fight against terrorism and other threats to national security.
Beyond remembering the departed, the day is also dedicated to celebrating living veterans and rallying financial and moral support for their welfare and that of the families left behind by fallen heroes.
January 15: A Date of National Significance
While Commonwealth nations typically observe Remembrance Day on November 11, marking the end of the First World War, Nigeria uniquely holds its main ceremony on January 15. This date was adopted to align with the end of the Nigerian Civil War, reflecting the country's specific historical journey and realities.
The 2026 commemoration carries added weight, coming at a time when the Armed Forces have recorded notable successes against insurgents in the North-East and other troubled regions. It is, therefore, an occasion to specially acknowledge the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and men currently in the field.
During the proceedings, the Federal Government reiterated its profound and enduring gratitude to these gallant Nigerians. A strong appeal was made to citizens, corporate organisations, and the private sector to generously support service personnel, particularly the wounded and the families of the fallen, not just during the remembrance period but continuously.
