January 15 now Armed Forces celebration, remembrance day — DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that the annual January 15 event to honour Nigeria’s military personnel will now be officially called “Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day”, instead of the former title, “Armed Forces Remembrance Day.”

In a statement on Thursday, Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, explained that the Federal Government approved the change to better capture the dual purpose of the occasion — celebrating the living members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) while remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

“January 15 is designated annually to honour the service of our military personnel and acknowledge the sacrifices of those who have given their lives to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and citizens’ lives and properties,” the statement said.

The commemoration includes a week-long series of activities nationwide, culminating in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony.

General Uba emphasized that the name change is meant to reflect the full spirit of the event, highlighting both the living and the fallen heroes of the Nigerian military.

He also urged media practitioners to adopt the new terminology in all future reports and publications.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria respectfully requests that the media use ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ in all coverage going forward,” Uba said, adding that the military values the media’s continued support in promoting security and collaboration across the country.

The day will also commemorates the end of the Nigerian Civil War, while honouring the bravery and dedication of the nation’s armed forces.