Shettima, Akpabio lead tribute to fallen heroes

Nigeria on Wednesday paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the armed forces, who sacrificed their lives to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation.

The solemn gathering at the National Arcade, Abuja, saw Vice President Kashim Shettima, Godswill Akpabio, the Senate president, top government officials, military personnel and members of the diplomatic corps, honouring the memories of the fallen soldiers.

The event featured wreath-laying by Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, followed by Akpabio, Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, who represented Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker, and Kudirat Kerere-Ekun, Nigeria’s chief justice.

Also present at the event were Muhammed Badaru, minister of defence; Bello Matawalle, minister of state for defence, Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff, the service chiefs, and the inspector-general of police.

Read also: Nigeria honours fallen heroes on 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day

The diplomatic corps, the Nigerian Legion, and widows of late soldiers were also represented. Olubunmi Ese-Okiti, interim president of the Military Widows Association (MIWA), participated on behalf of the widows.

A symbolic firing of three volleys echoed through the ceremony, reflecting an age-old tradition of honouring fallen soldiers on the battlefield.

The 2025 Armed Forces Day celebration began on January 10 with Jumma’at prayers at the National Mosque, followed by an interdenominational Christian service on January 12. The festivities included a series of social events, such as an award evening for soldiers, ratings, and airmen, as well as a regimental dinner and award night for officers, organized by the Defence Headquarters.

Meanwhile, Ahmed Ododo, governor of Kogi State, in Lokoja, assured the families of Nigerian fallen heroes of the provision of free health insurance for the spouses of soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“This is not just a statement or promise, but a deliberate effort by my administration to provide succour for the families of Nigeria’s fallen heroes living in Kogi State. I will adhere to this commitment religiously,” the governor stated.