By Odita Sunday
The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day formally commenced on Friday, January 9, with special Juma’at prayers held at the National Mosque, Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states, and all military formations nationwide.
Organised by the Ministry of Defence, the week-long programme is themed “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” underscoring the professionalism, resilience and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in safeguarding national unity and security.
Special prayers were offered for fallen heroes, serving personnel and the peace and stability of the nation, alongside sermons emphasising patriotism, unity and selfless service. Top government functionaries, including the President, state governors, Service Chiefs, senior military officers, veterans and other dignitaries, are expected to participate in various activities lined up for the celebrations.
Speaking on the programme, the Chairman of the National Planning Committee and Director of the Joint Services Department at the Ministry of Defence, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, outlined a robust schedule of events spanning January 9 to January 15, 2026.
Activities continue on Saturday, January 10, with a Humanitarian Outreach, Family and Community Day at major military barracks nationwide, including Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, as well as at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters.
On Sunday, January 11, a Special Thanksgiving and Interdenominational Church Service will hold at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, and designated military and civilian churches across the states.
The celebrations will further feature a National Symposium and Lecture Series on Monday, January 12, at the National Defence College, Abuja, with the theme “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development.”
A Gala and Award Night is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to honour outstanding contributions and service, with a red-carpet reception preceding the main event.
The programme will culminate on Thursday, January 15, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, with a solemn National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade, Abuja, and simultaneously in state capitals across the federation. Highlights of the day include wreath-laying by the President, Vice President, Service Chiefs and members of the Diplomatic Corps, a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, a minute of national silence, and a ceremonial parade by the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Legionnaires.
The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Week serves as a national platform to honour the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen and serving heroes, while fostering unity, patriotism and pride in the Armed Forces.