Activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day have officially commenced across Nigeria, beginning with special Juma’at prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques in the 36 states, and military formations nationwide.
This year’s celebration with the theme, “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes”, highlights the professionalism, role and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the current national security landscape.
According to a statement issued by the National Planning Committee Chairman and Director of Joint Services, Ministry of Defence, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, the week-long programme will run from January 9 to January 15, 2026, featuring religious, humanitarian, intellectual and ceremonial activities.
The opening day features special Juma’at services with prayers offered for fallen heroes, serving personnel and national peace, alongside sermons focused on sacrifice, unity and patriotism. Top government officials, service chiefs, senior officers and veterans are expected to participate nationwide.
Activities continue on Saturday, January 10, with a Humanitarian Outreach and Family and Community Day at major military barracks across the country, including Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, as well as the Nigeria Legion Headquarters.
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On Sunday, January 11, special thanksgiving and interdenominational church services will be held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja and designated military churches across the 36 states.
The programme proceeds on Monday, January 12, with a national symposium and lecture series at the National Defence College, Abuja, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development”.
A gala and award night is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, celebrating excellence and service within the Armed Forces community.
The celebrations will culminate on Thursday, January 15, with the National Wreath Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously across state capitals, featuring wreath laying by national leaders, a 21 gun salute, the Last Post, a minute of silence and a ceremonial parade.
The 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Week is designed to honour fallen heroes, celebrate serving personnel and reinforce national unity while showcasing the courage, professionalism and humanity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.