President Bola Tinubu has urged members of the Nigerian Armed Forces to uphold discipline, unity and unwavering loyalty, describing the military as a central pillar of national cohesion and the custodian of Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The president delivered the message at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Gala and Award Night held on Tuesday in Abuja.
He was represented at the event by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to continue backing the Armed Forces in their efforts to achieve sustainable peace and security across the country.
He emphasised that the wellbeing of military personnel remained directly tied to national security, assuring them of better welfare packages, modern equipment, improved training and enhanced living conditions.
According to him, the government would consistently align its policies with the sacrifices made by troops in service to the nation.
The president paid tribute to fallen heroes who lost their lives in defence of Nigeria, noting that their sacrifices remained deeply ingrained in the nation’s collective memory beyond physical monuments.
He stressed that honouring the fallen was a continuous national responsibility rather than a one-off ceremonial tradition.
Tinubu also commended serving personnel for their bravery and endurance on various operational fronts, noting that recent successes had helped restore stability and renewed public confidence in areas previously affected by insecurity.
He acknowledged the role of military families, describing their support and resilience as a crucial foundation of the country’s defence architecture.
The president announced the approval of two nationwide initiatives—the Thank-A-Soldier Electronic Wall and the My Nigerian Hero Campaign—designed to give Nigerians platforms to recognise and appreciate service members and veterans.
He assured citizens that despite the gains recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government remained committed to ensuring that all Nigerians could live and pursue their livelihoods in safety and dignity.
The event also featured the presentation of awards across several categories to deserving serving and retired officers of the Armed Forces.
Among the award recipients were the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, former Army Chief, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, and former Army spokesperson, retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, alongside other honourees.