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President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the brave men and women of Nigeria’s Armed Forces who have sacrificed their lives to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
In a tweet marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Tinubu urged Nigerians to promote unity and peace. “Let us eschew violence and divisive tendencies for a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us all become ambassadors of peace,” he posted on his official X handle.
While attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the UAE, Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the wreath-laying ceremony held at the National Arcade, Abuja. Dignitaries including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, ministers, service chiefs, and others joined the solemn event.
Across various states, governors, deputy governors, and legislators also honored the fallen heroes. The annual event, commemorated on January 15, marks the end of Nigeria’s civil war in 1970 and celebrates the valor of military personnel.
Tinubu emphasized the significance of Armed Forces Remembrance Day in acknowledging the sacrifices of servicemen and women who defend Nigeria and contribute to global peace. “Our nation is in dire need of peace, and so is the world. As we reflect today, remember that lives have been lost to guarantee our peaceful co-existence,” he noted.
The ceremony in Abuja included symbolic activities such as the last post, prayers from clerics, a minute’s silence, and the release of white doves symbolizing peace. Senior officials including Defense Minister Abubakar Badaru, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and service chiefs participated in the wreath-laying.
Governors across the country used the occasion to pledge support for military families and emphasize the importance of continued assistance for widows and dependents of fallen heroes:
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun highlighted the need to care for families of the departed year-round and promised ongoing support.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to assisting security agencies and addressing the impact of military sacrifices on surviving families.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori prayed for eternal rest for the fallen and pledged continuous support for their families.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa assured widows of sustained empowerment programs and resources to improve their livelihoods.
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji emphasized infrastructure, job creation, and financial assistance for servicemen and veterans.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde announced operational vehicle donations and pledged to improve legionnaires’ welfare. Similarly, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah called for material and emotional support for veterans and their families.
Other governors, including Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, and Nasir Idris of Kebbi, also pledged financial assistance and policy measures to honor the sacrifices of the Armed Forces.
As a gesture of gratitude, state governments collectively donated millions to support widows, veterans, and active service members, reinforcing their commitment to national unity and peace.
