By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
ON WEDNESDAY, Nigerians observed the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with solemn ceremonies nationwide to honour soldiers who paid the ultimate price defending the country’s sovereignty and global peace.
The main event took place at the National Arcade in Abuja, with dignitaries, military personnel, and citizens in attendance.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the ceremony.
The event began with a poignant laying of wreaths to commemorate the sacrifices of fallen heroes.
Shettima, as the Special Guest of Honour, led the activity, followed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
Other high-ranking officials, including Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, participated in the ceremony.
Military chiefs, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also laid wreaths, alongside Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
The Doyen of the Diplomatic Corps, Cameroun’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Salahuddin Ibrahim, represented the international community.
Major General Abdulmalik Jibril, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, and Mrs Veronica Aluko, representing widows of fallen soldiers, concluded the wreath-laying segment.
Prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of the departed by Brigadier General Anthony Maimagani, Director of Chaplain Services, and Navy Captain Rabiu Umar, Director of Naval Islamic Affairs.
Both prayed for comfort for bereaved families and the continued progress of the nation.
The ceremony featured symbolic traditions, including the firing of three volleys, known as the Party and Reveille, and the release of white pigeons symbolising peace and hope for Nigeria.
Abiodun Honours Armies
In Ogun State, a special church service was held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta.
Governor Dapo Abiodun called on Nigerians to prioritise peace and unity in honour of the fallen.
“Let us not only commemorate their memory through ceremonies but through actions that uphold their legacies,” he said.
The Governor also emphasised that supporting the families of fallen soldiers is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens.
He pledged to implement policies to improve the welfare of residents, including veterans and their dependents.
Bishop Emmanuel Akinrodoye of the Egba Diocese, in his sermon, urged Nigerians to remain prayerful and steadfast in the face of challenges.
He called for unity and stressed the importance of providing security agencies with adequate resources to address ongoing threats.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day holds significant historical importance, marking the end of Nigeria’s Civil War on January 15, 1970.
The annual observance is also a time to appreciate surviving soldiers and support the families of those who died in service.
The commemoration began on October 30, 2024, with President Tinubu’s launch of the remembrance emblem at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Other events included special prayers at the National Mosque and the National Christian Centre earlier this month.
Across the country, similar ceremonies were held in states like Lagos, Rivers, and Kano, with governors, military officials, and traditional leaders participating.
Each event underscored the nation’s gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces in ensuring peace and stability.
As the day concluded, Nigerians were reminded of their duty to foster unity, peace, and support for the Armed Forces.
The ceremonies stood as a solemn testament to the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for the nation’s progress and security.
