In his statement on Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remembered “brave” Nigerian men and women “who sacrificed everything for our country”.
The President said, their “courage” keeps the “freedom and peace” of Nigeria, adding, a nation “loses its direction'” when it fails to remember it’s fallen heroes.
He also remembered the families of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, describing their loss as “profound”, saying, they served the country with “honour” and that, their sacrifices will “never” be forgotten.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on 15 January. The Day honours service of veterans, as well as, to commemorate the servicemen of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Events take place at the federal, state and local levels. Weeks before 15 January, the Ministry of Defence inaugurates a national planning committee for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration preparations.
The Zenith of all events is the wreath laying done by the President of Nigeria at the Eagle’s Square in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Also, the Nigerian Legion is honoured on the Day.
President Tinubu’s statement on X, signed by the President himself, reads:
“On this Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day, Nigeria pauses to honour its heroes.
“We remember the brave men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who sacrificed everything for our country.
“Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace. A nation that forgets its fallen heroes loses its direction; Nigeria, however, remembers.
“I also speak today to the families of our fallen heroes- widows, children, and loved ones. Your loss is profound, and no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones. They served Nigeria with honour, and our people will never forget their sacrifices.
“Today, we celebrate our serving personnel. From the frontlines to support positions, on land, sea, and air, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting our people and sovereignty with discipline, courage, and professionalism, often far from home.
“As President and Commander in Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it. We will continue to support them in action.
May our fallen heroes rest in peace.
May God strengthen our Armed Forces.
May God bless Nigeria.
