As we commemorate Armed Forces Remembrance Day today, it is important that we take time to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed on January 15 each year to commemorate the servicemen and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It also honors veterans of World Wars I and II as well as the Nigerian Civil War.
It is instructive to note that, as a former British colony, Nigeria formerly celebrated Remembrance Day on November 11 as Poppy Day to honor the end of the First World War. Upon the government’s victory against Biafran troops on January 15, 1970, the holiday was removed from the calendar of the Commonwealth of Nations and changed to January 15 to commemorate the conclusion of the Nigerian Civil War.
For decades, our troops have put their lives on the line to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect its citizens, and maintain peace and stability. Their selfless service and courage in the face of danger continue to inspire gratitude and respect across our nation.
In particular, we must remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. The dangers faced by our troops are all too real, as evidenced by the lives lost while carrying out operations against insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s security.
Our thoughts go out to the families, friends and communities grieving the loss of our fallen heroes. Their sacrifice allows the rest of us to live in safety and pursue our hopes for the future. We owe them an eternal debt of honour.
As we mark this solemn occasion, it is also essential that we support the living veterans and service members who carry on the task of defending Nigeria today.
Our troops are working tirelessly on the frontlines to counter threats from terrorism, insurgency, banditry, oil theft and other crimes.
It is gratifying to note that much progress has been made. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported that troops deployed for counterterrorism operations killed 109 terrorists and arrested 81 suspects during the first week of 2025.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, reported that “during the week under review, troops neutralised 109 terrorists, arrested 81 suspects, and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages.”
In the considered opinion of this newspaper, despite these victories, significant challenges remain.
According to reports, no fewer than 77 people were killed and 43 kidnapped in different terror attacks across 10 states in the past two weeks. Many houses were burned, and more than 1,000 residents were displaced.
The loss of six brave soldiers during a dawn terrorist attack on January 4, 2025, on an army base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State, is disturbing.
In the wake of this tragic event, President Bola Tinubu called for a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident and ensure that it serves as a valuable lesson to prevent similar occurrences.
The President commended the armed forces for their swift and decisive response, particularly the air component, in launching effective retaliatory strikes. The targeted air raids resulted in the significant neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets as they attempted to flee.
Indeed, we must ensure our troops have the resources, training, intelligence and equipment needed to overcome adversaries who often possess advanced weaponry and technology.
Care must also be taken to safeguard troops’ welfare, provide adequate healthcare and transition support, and attend to the needs of military families.
Veterans who have returned from service must have access to education, housing and employment opportunities that honor their contributions.
Needless to say, while the military has taken strong action to curb insecurity, the optimal solution involves strengthening civilian law enforcement and governance as well.
The military has been compelled to undertake internal security tasks beyond its remit due to police shortcomings.
Looking forward, efforts must be made to boost policing capabilities, combat corruption, alleviate poverty and unemployment, and address grievances that foster criminality and extremism.
Proper resourcing and training of state security agencies will enable the military to focus on its primary mandate of defending Nigeria against external aggression.
On this 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, let us unite as citizens and leaders in appreciating the service and sacrifice of our troops and veterans. We must care for those wounded in body and spirit and support the families of those killed in action.
And we must work collectively to build a just, prosperous and peaceful society that honors those who gave their lives for Nigeria’s ideals. The nation owes its military a debt of gratitude, and this solemn day of remembrance must rekindle our commitment to upholding the values they fought to defend.
