The Defence Headquarters has changed the name of Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.
According to Major General Uba, the name change was necessitated by the need to capture the dual purpose of the occasion, which honours both serving members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and those who died in service to the nation.
The annual commemoration, preceded by a week of activities, reaches its climax with a parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15.
“January 15 is set aside annually by the Federal Government of Nigeria to honour the living personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria while acknowledging the sacrifices of those who have paid the supreme price to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity as well as the lives and properties of its citizens,” Uba stated.
“The day is preceded by a week of various activities, culminating in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on 15 January.”
He explained: “Previously known as ‘Armed Forces Remembrance Day’, the name was officially changed to ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ to better reflect the dual essence of the occasion in honouring the living while also acknowledging the fallen heroes.”
Major General Uba called on media organisations to adopt the new nomenclature in all subsequent reports and coverage.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria respectfully urges guardians of the fourth estate to adopt ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ in all future coverage. The AFN once again appreciates the media’s unwavering support in the fight against insecurity and looks forward to even stronger collaboration ahead,” he said.
The commemoration has traditionally been observed on January 15 to honour Nigerian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving the nation.
Historically, the annual event has focused predominantly on fallen personnel, with wreath-laying ceremonies conducted across the country.
The rebranding represents the military’s attempt to strike a balance between remembering the dead and recognising those currently serving in active duty.
