Armed Forces Remembrance: Shettima, Akpabio Lead Tributes To Fallen Heroes

The event, held at the National Arcade in Abuja, featured the symbolic laying of wreaths, with Vice President Shettima leading the ceremony.

He was followed by Senate President Akpabio, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas (represented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu), and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kerere-Ekun.

Other dignitaries, including the Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, also participated. Service chiefs, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of military widows joined the ceremony to honor the sacrifices of the armed forces.

The event featured the firing of three volleys, a customary salute originating from battlefields, and the release of ceremonial pigeons by the Vice President, symbolizing peace and freedom.

This year’s celebration included a series of activities such as prayers at the National Mosque and Interdenominational Christian services, lectures, art exhibitions, and regimental dinners organized by the Defence Headquarters.

The occasion, now renamed Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, highlights not only the sacrifices of fallen heroes from the World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and other missions but also celebrates the contributions of serving personnel.

January 15 remains a day dedicated to honoring the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military heroe