The Federal Government has redesignated Armed Forces Remembrance Day as Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day to honour serving personnel and fallen heroes
FG Renames Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day
The Federal Government has officially redesignated the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed every January 15, as Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, in a move aimed at reflecting the full significance of the occasion.
The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, announced the change in a statement issued on Thursday, explaining that the new name underscores the dual purpose of the day—celebrating serving personnel while honouring fallen heroes.
“January 15 is set aside annually by the Federal Government of Nigeria to honour the living personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) while acknowledging the sacrifices of those who have paid the supreme price to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity as well as the lives and properties of its citizens,” Uba said.
He noted that the former title, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, did not fully capture the essence of recognising both active service members and deceased heroes.
“Previously known as ‘Armed Forces Remembrance Day’, the name was officially changed to ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ to better reflect the dual essence of the occasion in honouring the living while also acknowledging the fallen heroes,” he added.
Maj.-Gen. Uba urged media organisations to adopt the new designation in all future reports, while appreciating journalists for their consistent support of military operations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria once again appreciates the media’s unwavering support in the fight against insecurity and looks forward to even stronger collaboration ahead,” he said.
COAS Charges Troops to Intensify Fight Against Terrorism
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged Nigerian Army troops to remain resolute in degrading and neutralising bandits and terrorists to restore public confidence and strengthen national security.
Shaibu gave the charge during an operational tour of army formations in Niger State, while addressing officers and soldiers of the 18 Brigade, Latini Barracks, Bida.
At the 31 Artillery Brigade in Minna, the army chief urged troops to remain firm, vigilant and decisive in confronting terrorists operating in Shiroro, Rijau, and other areas within the brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
The COAS assured personnel of enhanced welfare packages to boost morale and operational effectiveness, reaffirming his commitment to prioritising the welfare of troops and their families.
He disclosed plans to construct additional accommodation facilities and establish skills acquisition centres aimed at improving the well-being and economic empowerment of soldiers’ families.
Shaibu said he had been adequately briefed on challenges facing the formations, particularly in areas of accommodation and critical infrastructure, and commended the troops for their professionalism, diligence and resilience.
He further urged them to uphold fundamental human rights and maintain professionalism in line with the provisions of the United Nations Charter.
