By Bavoriat Clara
As part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, on Saturday, 10 January 2026, hosted a Family and Community Day for the families of serving, retired and fallen officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The event was held at Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
The wife of the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mrs Oghogho Lilian Christopher Musa, who was the Special Guest of Honour, said the Humanitarian Family and Community Day provided a meaningful platform to express love, care and solidarity with the families of fallen heroes and serving personnel.
In a statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Iheoma-Hart Queenet (CIO), Mrs Musa explained that the initiative went beyond ceremonial observance, as it was deliberately designed to recognise, appreciate and uplift the families and children of officers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation, as well as those whose loved ones are currently deployed on operations.
She noted that behind every gallant officer is a family whose patience, resilience and sacrifices contribute significantly to national security, and urged Nigerians to regard support for military families as both a moral and national responsibility.
In her welcome address, the wife of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mrs Hassana Pheelangwah, described the occasion as a day set aside for fun, fellowship and interaction with military families, while also expressing heartfelt appreciation for the courage, dedication and sacrifices of personnel of the Armed Forces.
Mrs Pheelangwah highlighted that the theme of the event, “Celebrating the Strength Behind Our Soldiers,” underscored the often unseen role of families in sustaining the morale and effectiveness of the Armed Forces. She said while the bravery of soldiers is visible on the battlefield, their strength is reinforced by the patience of spouses, the resilience of children and the support of families at home.
The event featured various recreational and bonding activities aimed at fostering unity, healing and encouragement among military families, including a family honour parade, tug of war, egg race, bouncing castles, mini-games and dancing competitions.
The Family and Community Day remains a key component of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations, reinforcing national appreciation for the Armed Forces and strengthening the bond between the military, their families and the wider community.
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