Shettima, Akpabio lead Nigeria’s heartfelt tribute to fallen heroes

Abuja played host to a moving tribute on Thursday as the nation came together to honor its fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade.

The event brought together Nigeria’s top political and military leaders in a solemn show of respect and national pride. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Benjamin Kalu, and Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, were among the dignitaries in attendance.

The ceremony began with a solemn march led by soldiers to the cenotaph, where prayers were offered for both the living and fallen servicemen who contributed to global peace and national integration. The prayers were conducted by senior chaplains from Nigeria’s armed forces: Colonel Rev. B.P. Nyam (Protestant Army Chaplain), Group Captain H. Idris (Air Force Islamic Affairs), and Navy Captain Very Rev. Fr. R.C. Diala (Roman Catholic Chaplain Services).

A minute of silence was observed to honour the fallen, followed by the ceremonial firing of an artillery gun.

The wreath-laying commenced at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, led by Vice President Shettima, accompanied by Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, Commander of the Guards Brigade. Following him, Senate President Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Minister of Defence Gen. Musa, and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, High Commissioner Abbas Salaheeden laid their wreaths in tribute.

Also participating were the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff, and the Inspector General of Police, each paying homage to the sacrifices of Nigerian military personnel.

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration (AFRDC), observed annually on January 15, honours veterans of World Wars I and II, as well as the Nigerian Civil War, while commemorating the dedication and service of all members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The event reinforced national appreciation for the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of Nigerian service members, underscoring the country’s commitment to remembering its heroes and supporting its military community.