President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to fallen members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of the nation’s peace and freedom.
In a statement personally signed on Thursday, the President honoured the courage and selflessness of military personnel who gave their lives in service to Nigeria, noting that although their names may fade from memory, their bravery continues to define the nation’s security and unity.
According to Tinubu, a country that forgets its fallen heroes risks losing its sense of purpose, stressing that Nigeria remains grateful for their sacrifices.
He also expressed deep sympathy to the families of the deceased, including widows, children, and relatives, acknowledging the pain of their loss and assuring them that the nation will always remember the honour and service of their loved ones.
While paying homage to the fallen, the President commended serving members of the Armed Forces for their discipline, professionalism, and courage, often displayed under difficult conditions and far from home.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment, as President and Commander-in-Chief, to the welfare, dignity, and support of the Armed Forces, emphasizing that a secure nation must stand firmly behind those who defend it.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented the President at the Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day activities held in Abuja on Thursday. Other dignitaries in attendance included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Benjamin Kalu, and Minister of Defence Christopher Musa.
The dignitaries were led in a solemn procession to the cenotaph, where wreaths were laid in honour of fallen heroes who died in service to the nation. Special prayers were offered for both living and deceased servicemen and women, led by senior Christian and Islamic military chaplains.
A minute of silence was observed, followed by the firing of artillery guns, after which the wreath-laying ceremony continued at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, marked annually on January 15, honours Nigerian veterans of the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and all personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces who have served in defence of the country.
