President Bola Tinubu, joined by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other dignitaries, participated in the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. This solemn event took place at the National Arcade in Abuja, where they paid homage to Nigerian military personnel who sacrificed their lives in service.
President Tinubu, presiding over the ceremony for the first time since assuming office, inspected a Guard of Honour comprising detachments from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Nigerian Legion. Following this, he laid a wreath on the tomb of the unknown soldier, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s territorial integrity and global peace.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, commemorates the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970. It serves to honor both living and deceased military heroes who served in various capacities, including World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and peacekeeping missions.
Prominent figures present at the ceremony included Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesome Wike, Minister of Defense Abubakar Badaru, Minister of State Bello Mattawale, Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and members of the diplomatic corps.
During the event, Senate President Akpabio assured the families left behind by the fallen heroes that the government would prioritize their welfare. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas echoed this commitment, emphasizing the National Assembly’s dedication to supporting the surviving family members.
In response to concerns raised by widows of fallen heroes, they called for improved welfare structures, business support, and financial access. The widows urged the government to collaborate with them in initiatives like selling products and tickets to generate revenue and provide sustainable livelihoods.
Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (retd.), Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, called for a review of benefits for military veterans, citing the impact of inflation on the current remunerations.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces to maintain Nigeria’s territorial integrity and peace, emphasizing the importance of continuous support for surviving family members and veterans.”
