From Victor Osula Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that January 15, previously marked as Armed Forces Remembrance Day, is now officially designated Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
This was announced in a press statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
According to the DHQ, January 15 is annually set aside by the Federal Government to honour serving personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), while also remembering officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in the defence of the nation’s territorial integrity and the protection of lives and property.
The military explained that the change in name was approved to better reflect the dual essence of the occasion — celebrating the courage, professionalism and commitment of personnel still in service, as well as commemorating the sacrifices of fallen heroes.
“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 noted that activities marking the annual event usually span a week and culminate in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15.
It also urged media organisations and members of the public to adopt the new designation in all future references and coverage of the event.
The Armed Forces further expressed appreciation to the media for its unwavering support in the fight against insecurity across the country and pledged continued collaboration in the interest of national security.
