As Nigeria marked the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), a powerful message was directed at the nation's military: uphold democracy and steer clear of partisan politics. The call came alongside commendations for President Bola Tinubu's security agenda and urgent appeals for improved welfare for serving and retired personnel.
Clergy and Governors Sound the Call for Democracy and Unity
During an inter-denominational church service in Abuja on Sunday, Reverend Uche Dan Okafor delivered a pointed sermon. He specifically pleaded with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other service chiefs not to truncate Nigeria's democracy but to stand firmly in its defense.
Okafor, whose sermon theme was 'Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Encouragement', pointed to the wave of military takeovers in West African nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He urged the armed forces to remain neutral, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, and to concentrate on their professional calling.
Echoing the sentiment of national unity, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated that the remembrance challenges every citizen to promote cohesion. "A nation divided weakens its defenders and a nation united strengthens its peace," he said, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa.
Commendations for Security Efforts and Pleas for Welfare
Several state governors used the occasion to commend President Bola Tinubu's approach to security. Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, stated that the President had taken firm steps under the Renewed Hope Agenda to strengthen security networks, improve intelligence, and provide modern equipment for the armed forces.
However, a strong parallel theme emerged regarding the welfare of military personnel. Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, delivered a poignant appeal at the King of Glory Chapel in Yenagoa. He decried the harrowing experiences retired personnel face to access pensions and benefits, noting that some even die in the process.
Governor Diri shared a personal anecdote about a former classmate, a retired officer, who died due to poor welfare. He stressed that those who put their lives on the line deserve the nation's full support and encouragement, both during and after their service.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme in Asaba, called on Nigerians to honour fallen heroes by recommitting to national unity and active citizenship. He reassured families of the deceased that their loved ones did not die in vain, pledging that his administration would prioritize the welfare of veterans and their families.
A Stern Warning to Terrorist Supporters
In a related event preceding the Sunday services, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), issued a stern warning. During the tee-off of the 2026 AFCRD Golf Tournament at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Club on Saturday, the Minister read the riot act to supporters of terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements.
He declared unequivocally that it would no longer be business as usual for such enablers in the new year, signaling a hardened stance against those compromising national security.
The commemorative services across the nation were solemn affairs, featuring moments of silence for the fallen. They served as a dual reminder: of the immense sacrifice made by members of the armed forces, and of the collective responsibility of both the military and civilian population to safeguard Nigeria's democratic journey and ensure those who serve are adequately honored and cared for.
