Vice President Kashim Shettima is leading activities to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) at the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier in Eagle Square, Abuja.
Shettima is representing President Bola Tinubu, who is presently in the United Arab Emirates attending the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
The AFCRD is an annual programme organised by the Ministry of Defence to honour fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation. These include members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and various internal security operations, particularly the ongoing fight against terrorism.
In addition to remembrance, the event recognises living veterans and provides an avenue to mobilise financial and moral support for their welfare, as well as for the families of deceased service personnel.
Although AFCRD is observed worldwide, Nigeria’s commemoration reflects its distinct historical journey. As a Commonwealth nation, Nigeria initially marked Remembrance Day on November 11 alongside other member countries to honour victims of the World Wars. The date— the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month— signifies the end of the First World War in 1918.
January 15 was later adopted to mark the end of the Nigerian Civil War and to better reflect Nigeria’s national experience.
The 2026 AFCRD is particularly significant as it comes amid notable achievements by the Armed Forces in the North-East and other regions of the country. The occasion therefore serves to recognise the bravery, professionalism and sacrifices of officers and men confronting Nigeria’s security challenges to ensure peace for citizens.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its lasting appreciation for these courageous Nigerians and urged citizens, organisations and the private sector to continue to support service members—especially wounded personnel and the families of fallen heroes—during the remembrance period and beyond.
