A retired senior officer of the Nigerian Army has expressed profound gratitude after being honoured with the maiden Sentinel of Freedom Service Award at the 2026 Armed Forces Gala and Award Night, held on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
The award ceremony formed part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day and recognised outstanding military service and sustained post-retirement contributions to national unity, peace, security, and civic values.
The recipient described the honour as deeply humbling and fulfilling, noting that the recognition—coming years after voluntary retirement from active military service—meant a great deal to him and his family.
He said the award reaffirmed the enduring value of service, sacrifice, and dedication to duty, while strengthening his resolve to continue contributing to Nigeria’s peace, security, stability, and development.
The event was hosted by President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. The ceremony celebrated the gallantry, professionalism, and steadfast commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to national unity and security.
According to the citation, the award recognised the officer’s distinguished military career, including key command and staff appointments, participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions, and service as Director of Army Public Relations and spokesman of the Nigerian Army.
In these roles, he was credited with advancing professional military communications, strengthening civil–military relations, and promoting public trust through transparent and responsible engagement.
Since retiring from active service, he has remained engaged in advocacy for veterans’ welfare, responsible citizenship, and the strengthening of national security institutions in support of peace, stability, and democratic governance in Nigeria.
The gala attracted senior government officials, serving and retired military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, veterans, and families of fallen heroes, creating an atmosphere of dignity, gratitude, and national pride.
The awardee expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the organisers of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, describing the honour as a milestone he will always cherish in his lifelong journey of service to Nigeria and humanity.
