The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day commenced on Friday, 9 January 2026, with special Juma’at prayers held at the National Mosque, Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states, and in military formations nationwide.
The week-long programme is themed “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” underscoring the professionalism, resilience, and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in safeguarding national security and unity.
According to the Programme of Events released by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi—who is also the Director, Joint Services Department, Ministry of Defence—the celebrations will run from 9 to 15 January 2026 and feature a blend of religious observances, community engagement, intellectual discourse, and ceremonial activities.
Programme Highlights
Friday, 9 January 2026
Special Juma’at services were observed nationwide, with prayers offered for fallen heroes, serving personnel, and enduring national peace. Sermons focused on sacrifice, unity, and patriotism. Dignitaries including the President, Governors, Service Chiefs, senior government officials, and veterans were in attendance.
Saturday, 10 January 2026
Humanitarian Outreach and Family & Community Day will take place at major military barracks nationwide, including Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, as well as at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters, beginning at 10:00 am.
Sunday, 11 January 2026
A Special Thanksgiving and Interdenominational Church Service will be held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja and in military and designated churches across the states at 2:00 pm.
Monday, 12 January 2026
A National Symposium and Lecture Series themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development” will be hosted at the National Defence College, Abuja at 10:00 am.
Tuesday, 13 January 2026
A Gala and Award Night will hold at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, with red carpet activities from 5:00 pm and the main event commencing at 6:00 pm.
Thursday, 15 January 2026 (Armed Forces Remembrance Day – Proper)
The week will culminate with a National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade, Abuja, and simultaneously in state capitals nationwide, starting at 8:00 am. Highlights 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 aims to honour the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, promote national unity, and showcase the humanity, discipline, and professionalism of the Armed Forces.
Iheoma-Hart Queeneth (CIO)
For: Sub-Committee on Publicity
(Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day)
