Tinubu Leads Tribute to Fallen Heroes at AFCRD 2026

Nigeria paused on Thursday, January 15, 2026, to solemnly honor its fallen military heroes during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony at the National Cenotaph, Eagle Square in Abuja—also referenced as the National Arcade across reports. ​ President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, who laid the first wreath, symbolizing national gratitude for personnel who sacrificed their lives defending peace, unity, and sovereignty. ​

Ceremony Highlights

The event unfolded with military precision, beginning with the sounding of the Last Post, followed by prayers for the nation, serving troops, and the departed, plus a minute of silence. ​ Artillery salutes boomed, wreaths were laid by top officials, three ceremonial volleys rang out, and Reveille signaled renewal, culminating in the release of pigeons for peace. ​ Vice President Shettima and dignitaries then signed the AFCRD register, etching the nation’s enduring remembrance. 

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Key Participants

Wreaths followed from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, Defence Minister (Rtd) Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, and others including the Deputy Speaker (for the House), Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and security heads. ​ Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Army Chief Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Naval Chief Vice Adm. Idi Abbaa, Air Chief Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun laid theirs, underscoring unified commitment to patriotism. ​ Attendees spanned the Federal Executive Council, diplomatic corps, senior/retired officers, Nigerian Legion members, and more. 

This wreath-laying capped AFCRD 2026 activities, which included a Gala and Awards Night earlier at the State House Banquet Hall, where the Federal Government honored serving personnel and veterans for gallantry, leadership, and service. ​ Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu received the Service and Sacrifice Award for counter-insurgency leadership, alongside figures like Theatre Commander Maj. Gen. Abdulsalami Enesi Abubakar; posthumous nods went to Brig. Gen. Musa Uba and others. ​ Veterans such as (Rtd) Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai and Brig. Gen. Sani Usman were celebrated for legacy contributions. ​ President Tinubu charged the forces to uphold unity and democracy. ​