DHQ Renames Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day
The Defence Headquarters has officially changed the name of Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, confirmed the change on Thursday, explaining that it reflects the dual purpose of the event: to honour both serving members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and those who lost their lives defending the nation.
“January 15 is set aside each year by the Federal Government to recognise the dedication of active personnel and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the lives and property of its citizens,” Uba said.
He added that the annual event is preceded by a week of activities and concludes with a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15.
“Previously called ‘Armed Forces Remembrance Day,’ the new name, ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day,’ better captures the essence of the occasion — celebrating the living while honouring the fallen,” Uba explained.
The general also urged media organisations to adopt the new name in all future coverage. “We call on the media to use ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ in reporting. We appreciate their continued support in the fight against insecurity and look forward to deeper collaboration,” he said.
Historically, the event has focused mainly on commemorating fallen soldiers, with wreath-laying ceremonies across the country. The renaming reflects the military’s intention to balance remembrance with recognition of active-duty personnel.
