The Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State has observed the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with a series of religious activities dedicated to honouring the sacrifices of serving and fallen military personnel.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by Lt.-Col. Ajemasu Jingina, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre.
According to Jingina, the commemorative activities commenced on January 9 with a Jumat prayer at the Cantonment Central Mosque, followed by an interdenominational church service on January 11 at the Protestant Church.
He said the Commander of the Infantry Corps Centre and Cantonment Commander, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, described AFCRD as a key element of Nigeria’s national heritage and collective identity.
Mutkut was represented at the events by Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, and Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Yusuf, Director of Special Forces at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre.
The commander noted that the day serves as an important tribute to the courage and dedication of both retired and serving members of the Armed Forces.
“No nation can exist without the commitment of its Armed Forces.
“This occasion allows us to remember and honour the selfless sacrifices of our fallen heroes who ensured that Nigeria remains united and indivisible,” he said.
Mutkut urged military personnel to remain committed to their responsibilities, describing military service as a calling rooted in service to humanity and God.
He also stressed the importance of professionalism, cautioning against actions that could damage the image of the Armed Forces and the country.
The commander expressed appreciation to the Service Chiefs for their leadership, strategic direction and provision of resources required to carry out military duties.
He assured officers and soldiers that the military leadership remained committed to improving their welfare and living conditions.
Mutkut also commended military families, especially spouses, for their resilience and continued support during troop deployments.
Jingina said that during the religious services, the Cantonment Imam, Lt.-Col. A.M. Ja’afar, and the Protestant Chaplain, Lt.-Col. (Rev.) M.L. Kunle, described military service as a noble calling.
He added that prayers were offered for the souls of fallen personnel and for divine protection over troops engaged in internal security operations across the country.
Senior officers and their families attended the ceremonies, underscoring a shared spirit of remembrance, unity and renewed hope for the year ahead.