By Bavoriat Clara
The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day has commenced on today Friday, 9 January 2026, with special Juma’at prayers held at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states, and military formations nationwide.
The week-long activities are being held under the theme “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” which underscores the professionalism, dedication and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation.
According to a statement issued by Iheoma-Hart Queeneth, Chief Information Officer, for the Sub-Committee on Publicity of the Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day, the programme of events will run from 9 to 15 January 2026.
The schedule was released by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, who is also the Director of the Joint Services Department at the Ministry of Defence.
The opening Juma’at services featured special prayers for fallen heroes, serving personnel and national peace, alongside sermons focusing on sacrifice, unity and patriotism. Dignitaries expected at the services include the President, state governors, Service Chiefs, senior government officials and military veterans.
Activities will continue on Saturday, 10 January, with a Humanitarian Outreach and Family and Community Day at major military barracks nationwide, including Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, as well as at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters. On Sunday, 11 January, a Special Thanksgiving and Interdenominational Church Service will hold at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, and at designated military and civilian churches across the states.
Other key events include a National Symposium and Lecture Series on Monday, 12 January, at the National Defence College, Abuja, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development,” and a Gala and Award Night on Tuesday, 13 January, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The celebrations will culminate on Thursday, 15 January 2026, with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day proper, marked by a National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously in state capitals. Highlights of the ceremony include wreath-laying by the President, Vice-President, Service Chiefs and members of the Diplomatic Corps, a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, a national minute of silence and a ceremonial parade by the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Legionnaires.
The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Week is aimed at honouring the nation’s fallen heroes, celebrating courage and professionalism, and fostering unity and national pride among Nigerians.
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