The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has stated that the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026 is a solemn reminder of Nigeria’s enduring gratitude to its fallen heroes and serving troops who continue to defend the nation’s unity and sovereignty.
Zig Diaries
| Defence
Date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Time: 13:45 WAT
Location: 📍Abuja, Nigeria
Speaking
during a press briefing held at the National Defence College, Abuja, the
Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding every
soldier carrying out lawful duties.
According to
the Minister of Defence, the theme of the 2026 edition, “Valour, Sacrifice and
Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” underscores the essence of courage, patriotism
and national cohesion that the Armed Forces embody.
Successes Recorded
He said
under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, the Ministry of Defence and the
military high command have achieved significant operational gains, neutralizing
over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arresting more than 17,000 others, and
rescuing nearly 10,000 hostages, while over 100,000 insurgents and their
families have surrendered.
“These
successes reflect improved synergy among the Services and security agencies,”
the Minister said, adding that the government remains committed to sustaining
ongoing operations until all remaining threats are eliminated.
Badaru
highlighted recent strategic reforms, including the signing of the Defence
Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023, which positions Nigeria as
a regional hub for defence technology. He noted that the acquisition of new
Armoured Fighting Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and naval vessels has
significantly enhanced operational readiness and reduced dependence on imports.
Other
scheduled AFCRD 2026 activities include:
- National Emblem Appeal Launch
by President Tinubu – 27 November 2025
- Religious Services – 9 and 11
January 2026
- Humanitarian and Community
Outreach – 10 January 2026
- National Symposium and Lecture
Series – 12 January 2026
- Gala and Fundraising Dinner –
13 January 2026
- National Wreath-Laying Ceremony
– 15 January 2026
Badaru urged
Nigerians to wear the Remembrance emblem with pride and support the families of
fallen heroes, noting that unity and gratitude remain at the heart of national
security.
He expressed
appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership under the
Renewed Hope Agenda, reaffirming the Ministry’s dedication to a stronger, safer
and more united Nigeria.
“Together, let us honour our past, support our present, and secure our future,” he concluded.
🏷️ Tags: Ministry of Defence, Armed Forces Celebration,
Mohammed Badaru, Nigerian Military, Veterans Welfare, RUSEB Programme, Defence
Industry, National Security
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