In a solemn and dignified national tribute, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, represented by the Vice President, on 15 January 2026 led the nation at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony held at the National Arcade, Abuja.
The event, conducted with full ceremonial honours and led by the Commander, Guards Brigade, brought together the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, and other senior government officials and national dignitaries.
Set within the disciplined rhythm of military tradition, the ceremony provided a powerful moment for collective reflection on the courage, loyalty, and sacrifice of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
The solemn rites commenced with the sounding of the Last Post, prayers for the nation, serving and fallen heroes, and the observance of a minute of silence in honour of gallant personnel of the Armed Forces and security services who laid down their lives in defence of the nation. This was followed by the sounding of artillery gun salutes, after which wreaths were laid in honour of the fallen.
The ceremony continued with the firing of three ceremonial volleys by the firing party and the evocative call of the Reveille, each sequence reinforcing the timeless values of service, sacrifice, and duty, and underscoring the depth of national gratitude for those who paid the supreme price.
Further underscoring the significance of the occasion, the Vice President and other senior officials thereafter signed the AFCRD Anniversary Register, formally inscribing the nation’s remembrance and gratitude into history. In a symbolic gesture of peace, hope, and renewal, pigeons were released into the sky, reflecting Nigeria’s enduring aspiration for unity and stability.
As the parade drew to a close, the message was clear and resolute: Nigeria remembers its heroes, honours their sacrifices, and remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the ideals for which they gave their all.
