The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of troops and supporting families of fallen soldiers as the nation marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. The solemn ceremony, held at the Catholic Church, Gingiya Barracks, brought together senior military officers, veterans, widows, and relatives of deceased soldiers for prayers, hymns, and tributes.
Major-General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, emphasized the importance of troop welfare in sustaining operational effectiveness, particularly in areas affected by insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges. Represented at the event by Brigadier General Raphael Okoroji, Ajose stressed that the sacrifices of fallen heroes must never be taken for granted, and that the well-being of serving personnel and their families is crucial to mission success.
“Welfare is key to operational effectiveness. Many of our personnel are deployed far from home and face difficult challenges. Their ability to serve depends largely on the emotional and social support provided by their families,” Okoroji said. He praised the widows and families of fallen soldiers as “silent defenders of national security” whose sacrifices are often overlooked.
Okoroji also highlighted the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment under President Bola Tinubu to enhance living conditions, logistics, healthcare, training opportunities, and post-service benefits for military personnel. He called on all stakeholders to ensure that the commemoration goes beyond symbolic gestures, translating honour into practical support for serving troops, veterans, and families of the fallen.
Attendees expressed gratitude for the recognition and called for sustained support beyond annual ceremonies. Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed every January 15, honours military personnel who have lost their lives in civil conflicts, internal security operations, and peacekeeping missions, with renewed significance amid ongoing operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and banditry across Nigeria.
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