AFCRD: Shettima leads tribute to fallen heroes

By Egena Sunday Ode

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday attended proceedings marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) at the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier in Eagle Square, Abuja.
He represented President Bola Tinubu, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates for Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026.
Shettima also represented the President last year at the annual event.
AFCRD is organised by the Ministry of Defence annually to honour military men who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation. These include personnel who died during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peace support operations, and various internal security engagements, particularly the ongoing fight against terrorism that threatens Nigeria’s corporate existence.
The scope of the event jas also been widened in recent times to also celebrate living veterans as well as a platform to solicit financial and moral support for their welfare, and the families of the fallen service members.
While the AFCRD is observed globally, Nigeria’s commemoration reflects its unique historical experience.
As a member of the Commonwealth, Nigeria previously marked Remembrance Day on November 11, in line with other member states, to honour those who died in the World Wars.
The date, 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marks the official end of the First World War in 1918.
However, January 15 was later adopted to commemorate the end of the Nigerian Civil War and to reflect national realities.
The 2026 AFCRD holds special significance, coinciding with recorded successes by the Armed Forces in the North-East and other parts of the country. It is, therefore, an occasion to specially acknowledge the courage, professionalism and sacrifices of officers and men confronting Nigeria’s security challenges so that citizens may live in peace.
The Federal Government reiterated its enduring gratitude to these gallant Nigerians and called on citizens, organisations, and the private sector to support service personnel generously, especially the wounded and the families left behind by fallen heroes, during the remembrance period and beyond.