Vice President Kashim Shettima took centre stage at a significant national event on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, stepping in for President Bola Tinubu. The occasion was the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, held at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier in Eagle Square, Abuja.
National Tribute to Fallen and Serving Heroes
The solemn ceremony, organised by the Ministry of Defence, serves as an annual tribute to Nigeria's military personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It honours sacrifices made during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, various peace support missions, and the ongoing internal security operations, including the critical fight against terrorism.
Beyond commemorating the departed, the event also celebrates living veterans. It provides a crucial platform to rally both financial and moral support for their well-being and for the families left behind by deceased service members.
Tinubu's Charge and Commitment from Abu Dhabi
President Bola Tinubu was absent from the Abuja proceedings as he is currently attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026 in the United Arab Emirates. However, his message to the armed forces was clear and resonant.
At the AFCRD Gala and Award Night held on Tuesday, January 13, President Tinubu charged the military to remain steadfast in discipline, loyalty, and unity. He described them as the enduring symbol of Nigeria's shared strength and the guardians of the nation's democracy.
He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting the military to secure lasting peace and stability across the country. Tinubu emphasised that the welfare of troops is inseparable from national security, assuring personnel of improved equipment, enhanced training, and better living conditions.
Historical Significance and Recent Successes
While Remembrance Day is observed globally on November 11, Nigeria marks its own Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day on January 15. This date holds deep national historical significance, particularly marking the end of the Nigerian Civil War.
The 2026 celebration comes at a time when the Nigerian Armed Forces have reportedly recorded significant successes in security operations, especially in the Northeast and other troubled regions of the country.
Earlier, President Tinubu had officially unveiled the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration emblem and launched the appeal fund at the Council Chambers of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. During that event, he paid glowing tributes to fallen heroes, noting that their names are etched not only on monuments but in the hearts of all Nigerians. He stressed that his government would continue to match their supreme sacrifices with concrete support.
In a related show of support, it was earlier reported that President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, collectively pledged N320 million to the Nigerian Legion during the emblem appeal launch.
Furthermore, the federal government honoured late Brigadier General Musa Uba and eight other Nigerian Army personnel for gallantry and distinguished service at the award night, underscoring the administration's focus on recognising valour.
