NATION HONOURS ITS FALLEN HEROES AT 2026 AFCRD WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY IN SOLEMN PARADE AND SACRED TRIBUTE

Abuja, Nigeria | 15 January 2026

In a solemn and dignified national tribute, Nigeria on Thursday honoured its fallen heroes at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony held at the National Arcade, Abuja. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was represented by the Vice President, who led the nation in paying homage to gallant men and women who laid down their lives in defence of the country.

The ceremony, conducted with full ceremonial honours and led by the Commander, Guards Brigade, brought together the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, senior government officials, veterans, and other national dignitaries. Set within the disciplined rhythm of military tradition, the event provided a powerful moment for collective reflection on the courage, loyalty, and sacrifice that underpin Nigeria’s sovereignty and security.

Proceedings commenced with the sounding of the Last Post, followed by intercessory prayers for the nation, serving personnel, and fallen heroes. A minute of silence was then observed in honour of members of the Armed Forces and security services who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. Artillery gun salutes echoed across the National Arcade, marking the transition to the wreath-laying segment in tribute to the departed.

The ceremony continued with the firing of three ceremonial volleys by the firing party and the evocative call of the Reveille. Each sequence reinforced the timeless values of service, sacrifice, and duty, underscoring the nation’s profound gratitude to those who gave their all for peace, unity, and national integrity.
Further highlighting the significance of the occasion, the Vice President and other senior officials signed the AFCRD Anniversary Register, formally inscribing the nation’s remembrance into history. In a symbolic gesture of peace, hope, and renewal, pigeons were released into the sky—an enduring emblem of Nigeria’s aspiration for unity and stability.
As the parade drew to a close, the message was clear and resolute: Nigeria remembers its heroes, honours their sacrifices, and remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the ideals for which they stood.
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