Saluting Nigeria’s Fallen Soldiers
By Ifeanyi Favour Ogochukwu
Every 15 January, Nigeria pauses to honour its fallen heroes on Armed Forces Remembrance Day, a solemn tribute to the men and women who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation, and a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to unity and peace.
The day commemorates Nigerian veterans of the First and Second World Wars, the Civil War, and all personnel lost in the line of duty. Observed on 15 January since 1970 — the day the Civil War ended, it stands as a powerful reminder that unity must prevail over division and reconciliation over conflict.
Beyond history, the observance carries a moral charge. It calls on Nigerians to reject hate and embrace tolerance, reflecting the values our heroes defended: courage, selflessness, and service. The Armed Forces consistently shoulder immense risks, from counter-insurgency to peacekeeping, often under difficult conditions, with sacrifices that go far beyond ceremonial recognition.
In a meaningful show of support timed with this year’s Remembrance Day activities, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has unveiled targeted welfare reforms aimed at improving the lives of serving and retired personnel and their families. Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, announced plans to introduce soft loan schemes for spouses of service members and expand access to housing support to complement existing programmes.
These initiatives, backed by the President and Commander-in-Chief, are designed to promote family stability, support viable business ventures, and help personnel retire with personal homes and sustainable income sources. They underscore the leadership’s recognition that morale and welfare are critical to operational effectiveness and long-term institutional strength.
Such steps signal real progress beyond ceremonial honours, tangible actions that affirm our collective responsibility to those who defend the nation.
True remembrance must therefore transcend rituals. It requires sustained improvements in welfare, fair compensation for families of the fallen, and robust support systems for those still serving. Peace and security are shared responsibilities; national stability demands civic cooperation alongside military sacrifice.
As Nigeria honours its true heroes, this day urges introspection and action, building a nation worthy of their sacrifice. May the fallen rest in peace, may their families find strength, and may Nigeria be blessed with enduring unity and peace.
Favour, an NYSC corps member with PRNigeria, writes from Abuja and can be reached at: [email protected]
