AFCRD 2026: Tinubu charges Armed Forces to uphold unity, democracy

President Bola Tinubu, had charged the Nigerian Armed Forces to remain steadfast in discipline, loyalty and unity, describing them as the enduring symbol of Nigeria’s shared strength and guardians of the nation’s democracy.

Tinubu gave the charge at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Gala and Award Night held on Tuesday in Abuja.

He was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military to secure lasting peace and stability across the country.

He said the welfare of troops was inseparable from national security, assuring personnel of improved equipment, enhanced training and better living conditions.

Tinubu stressed that his government would continue to match their sacrifices with concrete support.

The president paid glowing tributes to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme prices in defence of the nation, noting that their names were etched not only on monuments but in the hearts of Nigerians.

He added that remembrance was a permanent national duty and not merely a ceremonial exercise.

Tinubu commended the serving personnel for their courage and resilience on the front-lines, saying their recent operational successes had helped restore confidence and safety in many communities previously affected by insecurity.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices of military families, describing their support as a vital pillar of national defence.

The president announced the approval of two nationwide engagement initiatives—the Thank-A-Soldier Electronic Wall and the My Nigerian Hero Campaign—to enable Nigerians to honour service personnel and veterans.

He assured Nigerians that despite progress recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government would not relent until every citizen could live and work in safety and dignity.

The event featured different categories of awards to some deserving serving and retired officers of the armed forces.

The awardees were the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, former Army Chief, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, and former Army spokesperson, retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, among several others.