2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day: Appeal for More Support
Makurdi, January 9, 2026
As part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, a special Jumaat prayer was held on Friday at the Makurdi Central Mosque, where clerics and worshippers called for stronger support systems for the families of fallen heroes in recognition of their sacrifices toward ensuring a peaceful and united Nigeria.
The special prayer session was led by the Deputy Imam of the Makurdi Central Mosque, Dan Azumi Soho, who used the occasion to advocate coordinated and sustained support for the families of military personnel who lost their lives in the defence of the nation. He stressed that such support would give the families a sense of belonging and serve as a meaningful way of appreciating the sacrifices made by their departed loved ones.
Correspondent Elias Ityav reports that the prayer session was attended by serving and retired members of the Armed Forces, as well as personnel from various paramilitary formations, alongside members of the Muslim community.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is commemorated annually on January 15 to honour fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This year’s celebration, with the theme “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” highlights the courage, professionalism, and commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces within the current national security landscape.
In his message, Deputy Imam Dan Azumi Soho emphasised the need for government, communities, and relevant stakeholders to work together in providing welfare, moral, and social support for the families of fallen soldiers. He noted that caring for these families is a collective responsibility and a vital aspect of national appreciation.
Some serving officers of the Nigerian Army and members of the Muslim community described the occasion as a wake-up call for all Nigerians to promote peace, unity, and national progress.
The event also served as an avenue for prayers seeking God’s guidance, protection, and strength for both serving and retired members of the Armed Forces and paramilitary formations as they continue to serve the nation with dedication and honour.
