Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a special day in Nigeria’s military experience. It is a national rite that is held annually to mark on January 15.
By Ebenezer Promise
President Bola Tinubu on Monday led the National Assembly, the armed forces, and other critical stakeholders to pay respect to the fallen heroes at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (National Cenotaph), Abuja.
The ceremony was the culmination of the activities that began with the launch of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem last October.
On hand to witness the ceremony were the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru; the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola; among others.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an annual event often marked on January 15 to commemorate the nation’s departed compatriots. It is also an open celebration to honor our living veterans.
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Here are 12 important things that you need to know about the Armed Forces Remembrance Day:
1. Every year in Nigeria, January 15 is marked as a special day known as “Armed Forces Remembrance Day” or simply, “Armed Forces Day”.
2. In the past, it was observed on November 11 each year, aligning with the Remembrance Day (Poppy Day) for World War II veterans in the British Commonwealth of Nations. In Nigeria, the date of January 15 holds significance as it marks the surrender of Biafran troops to the Federal troops in 1970. This event marked the end of the Nigerian Civil War, which aimed to divide the unity of Nigeria.
3. Each year, a solemn gathering takes place at the cenotaph of the “unknown soldier,” where security chiefs, political leaders, members of the Nigerian legion, and other stakeholders come together to pay tribute to our brave war veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield.
4. A cenotaph is a solemn memorial that pays tribute to individuals or a collective, even though their physical remains rest elsewhere. It serves as a powerful symbol of remembrance and respect.
Invictus Maneo
It can also serve as the original burial place for an individual who has later been laid to rest in a different location. Many soldiers who lose their lives in war are laid to rest on the battlefield, which is why cenotaphs are necessary. Cenotaphs can be found in every state, including the FCT Abuja.
5. A wreath is a beautiful arrangement of flowers, leaves, fruits, twigs, or other materials that are carefully crafted into a circular shape. It is then placed as a symbol of respect and tribute to the unidentified soldier at the Cenotaph.
6. The term “Unknown soldier” is used to symbolize the brave war veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace and unity of our nation.
7. White pigeons are set free during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day event, symbolizing the ideals of peace and unity within the nation. In addition, traditional gun salutes are carried out by firing cannons or artillery as a tribute to the unidentified soldier.
8. Before the festivities, the Federal and State governments introduced the Armed Forces emblem, a symbol of respect for the unknown soldier.
10. Remember to proudly display the Armed Forces Remembrance emblem on your left-hand pocket, the same side where you attach your lanyard.
11. The emblem is to be worn once it has been officially launched by the President in Abuja or by the Governor in the states.
12. After January 15, when the President or Governor lays the wreath on the cenotaph of the unknown soldier, the emblem is no longer valid and should not be worn.
According out heroes with Sacrificial respect such as this is indeed a great opportunity for every countrymen and women to recognize the unforgettable virtues of their heroic exploits, whether dead or still alive with us.
To our forever living heroes, Deus Vobiscum!!!
