Nigeria Commences 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day with Nationwide Juma'at Prayers

Nigeria has officially commenced its 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with special Juma'at prayers held nationwide on Friday, January 9, 2026. The week-long series of events is dedicated to honoring the nation's fallen heroes and celebrating its serving military personnel.

Nationwide Prayers Mark Commencement

The special Juma'at prayers took place simultaneously at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques across all 36 states of the federation, and various military formations. These prayers served as a solemn start to the annual observance, with sermons emphasizing themes of sacrifice, unity, and patriotism. Prayers were specifically offered for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes, the well-being of serving personnel, and for national peace and unity.

High-ranking government officials and military leaders participated in the prayers. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the National Mosque in Abuja, reaffirming the Federal Government's commitment to empowering the Armed Forces in addressing insecurity. Other dignitaries, including state governors, service chiefs, senior officials, and veterans, were also in attendance across various prayer centers.

Theme and Week-Long Activities

The 2026 AFCRD is being observed under the theme: 'Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes.' This theme underscores the professionalism, courage, and selfless service of the Nigerian Armed Forces in safeguarding the country's sovereignty and internal security.

The week-long program, coordinated by the Ministry of Defence, will feature a variety of events leading up to the main observance on January 15. Scheduled activities include:

• Saturday, January 10: Humanitarian Outreach and Family and Community Day at major military barracks nationwide.
• Sunday, January 11: Special thanksgiving and interdenominational church services at the National Christian Centre in Abuja and designated military churches.
• Monday, January 12: A national symposium and lecture series at the National Defence College, Abuja, themed 'Securing Nigeria's Future: The Armed Forces and National Development.'
• Tuesday, January 13: A gala and award night at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to celebrate excellence and service within the Armed Forces community.

Significance of the Observance

The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, formerly known as 'Armed Forces Remembrance Day,' was officially redesignated to reflect its dual purpose of honoring both living personnel and fallen heroes. The annual event, culminating on January 15, commemorates the end of the Nigerian Civil War on January 15, 1970, and honors veterans of World War I, World War II, and the Nigerian Civil War, as well as all servicemen of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The celebrations will conclude on Thursday, January 15, 2026, with the traditional National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja, and simultaneously in state capitals across the country. This ceremony typically involves wreath-laying by the President, Vice President, service chiefs, and members of the diplomatic corps, accompanied by a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute of silence.