Jumaat Prayer Marks Opening of 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day
Abuja, January 9, 2026
The 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day in Nigeria officially commenced on Friday, January 9, 2026, with special Jumaat prayers held at the National Mosque in Abuja, mosques across the 36 states of the federation, and various military formations nationwide.
The week-long programme, which runs until January 15, will culminate in a grand military parade and wreath-laying ceremony in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes and serving personnel.
At the National Mosque, Abuja, the special prayers were led by senior Islamic clerics, with the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, leading top government officials, Service Chiefs, senior military officers, veterans, and other dignitaries in attendance. Prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of fallen soldiers, the safety of serving personnel, the wellbeing of veterans, and the continued peace, unity, and security of the nation.
Similar prayer sessions were held simultaneously in mosques across all 36 states and within military formations, underscoring the nationwide significance of the commemoration and the collective gratitude of Nigerians to the Armed Forces.
The theme for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes.” The theme highlights the courage, professionalism, selflessness, and unity of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the defence of the country’s sovereignty and the preservation of peace.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day is observed annually to recognise the sacrifices of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, both past and present, and to honour their unwavering commitment to national service.
Activities lined up for the week are expected to include interfaith prayers, public lectures, community engagements, and other commemorative events, all aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and reinforcing national unity.
