Why January 15 Is Now Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day — DHQ
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has explained the rationale behind the renaming of the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, noting that the change is intended to reflect the full essence of the occasion.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said January 15 remains a significant national day set aside by the Federal Government to honour both serving personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and those who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.
According to the DHQ, the new designation underscores a dual responsibility: celebrating the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and soldiers currently in service, while also remembering fallen heroes who laid down their lives to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the lives and property of citizens.
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“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,” the statement read.
The DHQ explained that activities marking the day are preceded by a week-long programme, culminating in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15, symbolising national gratitude to the Armed Forces.
Major General Uba also urged media organisations and practitioners—the “guardians of the fourth estate”—to adopt and consistently use the official title Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day in all future reportage.
He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ appreciation of the media’s continued support in national security efforts and called for sustained collaboration in promoting accurate information and public understanding of military operations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria deeply values the partnership with the media in the fight against insecurity and looks forward to even stronger cooperation,” the DHQ stated.
January 15 remains one of Nigeria’s most solemn national observances, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices that underpin the country’s peace, unity, and sovereignty, while also recognising the men and women still standing guard in defence of the nation.
By PRNigeria
