Governors across several states, alongside federal leaders, yesterday marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with tributes to Nigeria’s military, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising the welfare, motivation and equipping of the armed forces.
At interdenominational church services held nationwide, speakers paid glowing tributes to fallen heroes and veterans, while reaffirming government commitment to strengthening national security and restoring peace across the country.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), restated that President Tinubu had placed premium importance on the welfare and operational readiness of the armed forces and other security agencies, enabling them to discharge their constitutional responsibilities professionally and efficiently.
Speaking at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026 interdenominational service, Musa expressed gratitude to the president for his consistent support, noting that Tinubu’s actions reflected a deep appreciation of the sacrifices made by security personnel.
“His actions speak volumes about the value he places on service and sacrifice,” Musa said, adding that despite Nigeria’s challenges, he remained optimistic about the country’s future.
He described the occasion as one of worship, reflection and remembrance, noting that Nigerians gathered across the 36 states in unity and hope. He paid tribute to fallen heroes and heroines, serving personnel and their families, with special recognition for military spouses whose sacrifices often go unnoticed.
National Assembly Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured Nigerians that the National Assembly, working closely with the executive, remained committed to restoring peace and security nationwide.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Peter Nwebonyi, Akpabio described the blood of fallen heroes as the seed of national unity, peace and progress. He stressed that Nigeria’s diversity remained a strength and urged continued protection of freedom of religion and conscience as pillars of democracy.
He added that history would judge the present generation not by words alone, but by concrete actions taken to rebuild the nation.
Abiodun, Fubara, Oyebanji, Diri Speak
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the federal government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing it as consistent with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking through his deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, at a special church service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, Abiodun said President Tinubu had taken decisive steps to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture through improved intelligence coordination, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, improved troop welfare and modern equipment.
He noted that the interventions were already yielding positive results and urged Nigerians to support government efforts by promoting peace, unity and patriotism.
In Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara urged residents to remain calm and trust in God, assuring them that his administration remained focused on sustaining peace and progress.
Speaking at an interdenominational service at St. Cyprian’s Anglican Church, Port Harcourt, Fubara said his calm disposition was anchored in faith, stressing that peace remained paramount for the state.
His deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, paid tribute to fallen heroes and veterans, urging continued prayers for the state government and its leadership.
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, saluted the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices in defending the nation’s territorial integrity and enhancing Nigeria’s global image.
Represented by his deputy, Mrs. Monisade Afuye, Oyebanji said Armed Forces Remembrance Day served as a reminder that Nigeria’s peace and freedom were won at great cost, urging citizens to honour the fallen through actions that promote justice, unity and peaceful coexistence.
In Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri called for improved welfare for serving and retired military personnel, decrying the hardship many retirees face in accessing pensions and benefits.
While acknowledging improvements under the current federal administration, Diri urged greater commitment from all levels of government and cautioned against constant criticism of the military on social media, advocating commendation for their selfless service instead.
Call for Professionalism and Neutrality
Delivering a sermon titled “Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Strength,” drawn from 2 Chronicles 32:5–8, the Most Rev. Dan Okafor charged the Nigerian military to remain steadfast in defending democracy and constitutional order.
He specifically urged the armed forces to remain neutral as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, warning against unconstitutional takeovers of government, particularly amid recent coups in parts of West Africa.
The nationwide commemorations reinforced calls for unity, patriotism and sustained support for Nigeria’s armed forces, whose sacrifices, speakers agreed, remain central to the country’s peace, security and democratic stability.
