Vice President Shettima Represents Tinubu at 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony held at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier, Eagle Square, Abuja. President Tinubu is in the United Arab Emirates attending the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
The AFCRD, organised annually by the Ministry of Defence, honours Nigerian military personnel who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. This includes those who died during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and internal security operations, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
The event also celebrates living veterans and provides an opportunity to rally financial and moral support for their welfare, as well as for the families of fallen service members.
While Remembrance Day is observed worldwide, Nigeria’s commemoration has a unique history. Initially marked on November 11 in line with other Commonwealth nations, the date was later moved to January 15 to mark the end of the Nigerian Civil War and reflect the country’s own historical journey.
The 2026 ceremony comes at a time of notable security gains by the Armed Forces in the North-East and other regions. It recognises the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and soldiers working to maintain peace and security for Nigerians.
The Federal Government reiterated its appreciation for these gallant personnel and called on citizens, organisations, and the private sector to continue supporting service members, especially wounded soldiers and families of fallen heroes.
