NIGERIA RENAMES ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY TO HONOUR BOTH LIVING AND FALLEN SOLDIERS

RENAMING OF ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced a change to the name of Nigeria’s annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day. It said the event will no longer be called Armed Forces Remembrance Day, and it will rather be known as Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, a new name that better explains what the day truly stands for.

The announcement was made in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, who explained that the change reflects the dual purpose of the occasion: celebrating serving military personnel and remembering those who lost their lives in defence of Nigeria.

Why the Name Was Changed

For many Nigerians, Armed Forces Remembrance Day has always been seen mainly as a day of mourning, a day to remember soldiers who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

However, the Defence Headquarters says that the day has always been about more than remembrance alone. It is also meant to honor the men and women who are still in uniform, risking their lives every day to protect Nigeria’s borders, communities and citizens.

According to the DHQ, the new name, Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, was chosen to clearly show these two important sides of the occasion: celebration for the living and remembrance for the fallen.

Major General Uba explained that January 15 is set aside by the Federal Government to honor living personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria while also recognising the sacrifices of those who died in the line of duty.

What Happens on January 15

Every year, the day is marked with a week-long programme of activities across the country. These activities lead up to the main event on January 15, which features a grand military parade and a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of fallen heroes.

Top government officials, military leaders, veterans and members of the public usually attend the ceremony. It is a moment of national reflection, a time to remember the cost of peace and appreciate those who continue to stand in harm’s way for the country.

It is also a day to pause and acknowledge the sacrifices of military families who live with the constant fear and uncertainty that comes with service.

Following the announcement, the Defence Headquarters has also asked media organisations to start using the new name in all reports and coverage related to the event and so the change is already in effect and should be reflected in newspapers, radio, television and online publications going forward.