The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, led the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) proceedings at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier, Eagle Square, Abuja, standing in for President Bola Tinubu, who is attending Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026 in the United Arab Emirates.

Organised annually by the Ministry of Defence, the AFCRD honours Nigerian military personnel who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. This includes those who died in the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peace support operations, and ongoing efforts against terrorism and other security threats.

Beyond remembrance, the event also celebrates living veterans and calls for financial and moral support for their welfare and the families of fallen service members.

While Remembrance Day was traditionally observed on November 11 in line with Commonwealth nations, Nigeria later adopted January 15 to coincide with the end of the Nigerian Civil War and better reflect national experiences.

The 2026 edition of AFCRD also highlights recent successes of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the Northeast and other regions, recognising the bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and men ensuring national security and peace.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its gratitude to the armed forces and urged citizens, organisations, and the private sector to provide ongoing support to military personnel, particularly the wounded and families of fallen heroes.