President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to renounce violence and divisive tendencies, emphasizing the importance of unity and prosperity for the country. In a tweet marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces who have laid down their lives to ensure Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“We can build a future of hope and optimism together, where peace and unity reign supreme,” Tinubu said. “Let us eschew violence and divisive tendencies for a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us all become ambassadors of peace.”
Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima led dignitaries, including members of the diplomatic corps, to the National Arcade in Abuja for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day and wreath-laying ceremony. Shettima represented President Tinubu, who is currently attending the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the United Arab Emirates.
The ceremony included the Last Post, prayers by Christian and Muslim clerics, a minute’s silence, and wreath-laying. Those who laid wreaths included Senate President Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru emphasized the significance of the ceremony, stating that it shows surviving members of the families of the fallen that their sacrifice remains fresh in the collective memory of the nation.
Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jubril (retd), noted that the ceremony honors both the living and fallen servicemen and women, signaling that they serve a grateful nation.
The National President of the Military Widows Association, Mrs. Olubunmi Ese-Okiti, urged the Federal Government to expedite life insurance claims for its members who lost their husbands in action.
