The Defence Headquarters has officially renamed Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. This announcement was made in a statement on Thursday by the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba.
He explained that the change was implemented to reflect the dual purpose of the occasion: to honour the serving personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria while also remembering those who lost their lives in the defence of the country.
Uba noted that the annual event is preceded by a week of activities and culminates in a parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15. He stated, “January 15 is set aside annually by the Federal Government of Nigeria to honour the living personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria while acknowledging the sacrifices of those who have paid the supreme price to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity as well as the lives and properties of its citizens.”
He continued, “The day is preceded by a week of various activities, culminating in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on 15 January. Previously known as ‘Armed Forces Remembrance Day,’ the name was officially changed to ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ to better reflect the dual essence of the occasion in honouring the living while also acknowledging the fallen heroes.”
Uba urged media organisations to adopt the new name in all future reports and coverage. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria respectfully urges guardians of the fourth estate to adopt ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ in all future coverage. The AFN once again appreciates the media’s unwavering support in the fight against insecurity and looks forward to even stronger collaboration ahead,” he said.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day has traditionally been observed on January 15 to commemorate Nigerian soldiers who died in the service of the nation. Over the years, the focus of the annual event has largely been on fallen personnel, with ceremonies such as wreath-laying held across the country. The change reflects the military’s effort to balance remembrance with recognition of active-duty personnel.
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