Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Atiku Abubakar Pays Tribute to Nigeria’s Heroes
Atiku Abubakar Armed Forces Remembrance Day tribute took center stage on January 15, 2026, as the former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate honored Nigeria’s fallen and serving military personnel with a deeply emotional message. In his statement, Atiku reflected on the extraordinary sacrifices made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, stressing that the nation’s sovereignty, unity, and relative peace are sustained by the courage and dedication of men and women who place their lives on the line daily in defense of the country.
Atiku described Armed Forces Remembrance Day as more than a ceremonial event, calling it a sacred moment for collective reflection on Nigeria’s military history and the heavy cost of national security. He paid special homage to veterans of the Nigerian Civil War, as well as active duty personnel currently engaged in operations against insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping across troubled regions of the country. According to him, the freedom Nigerians enjoy to pursue political, economic, and social aspirations is made possible by the quiet resilience of soldiers confronting danger far from public view.
The former Vice President also used the occasion to draw attention to the welfare of service members and their families. He emphasized that true remembrance goes beyond speeches and wreath laying, urging authorities to strengthen support systems for wounded soldiers, veterans, and the families of fallen heroes. Atiku noted that adequate training, modern equipment, mental health care, and prompt compensation for affected families remain essential to sustaining morale within the armed forces and preserving their professionalism.
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Atiku further reminded Nigerians that national security is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the battlefield. He called on citizens to actively support the military through community cooperation, timely intelligence sharing, and sustained respect for those who wear the uniform. He stressed that a nation that honors its defenders builds a stronger foundation for democracy, stability, and long term development.
As the country observes a minute of silence in remembrance of its fallen heroes, Atiku Abubakar reaffirmed his belief in the armed forces as a pillar of national strength. He concluded his message with prayers for the souls of departed soldiers and expressed hope for the safe return of troops currently deployed within and outside Nigeria, urging the nation never to forget the price of its freedom.