Tradition, Remembrance, Comradeship and Regimental Splendor Mark Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026 Regimental Dinner Night
The 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Regimental Dinner Night, held on 14 January 2026, was a dignified celebration of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s rich heritage, shared values, and enduring sense of unity. Hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede, the event convened the highest echelon of military leadership, with the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, gracing the occasion as Special Guest of Honour. The presence of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), other Service Chiefs, and the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) further underscored the spirit of jointness, unity of command, and regimental pride that define the Armed Forces family.
In his welcome address, the CDS described the regimental dinner night as one of the Armed Forces’ most cherished traditions, an occasion that harmoniously blends solemn remembrance with discipline, fellowship, and pride in the noble profession of arms. He paid glowing tribute to the gallant men and women whose sacrifices laid the foundation of Nigeria’s freedom and continue to sustain peace and security across the country. Despite evolving and complex security challenges, he noted that Nigerian troops have remained steadfast, prevailing with courage and professionalism while strengthening civil-military relations and earning the confidence of the populace. He also acknowledged the invaluable support of the families of service personnel, whose quiet sacrifices remain critical to operational effectiveness.
Speaking on the significance of the occasion, the Honourable Minister of Defence reaffirmed the resilience and professionalism of the Armed Forces, describing the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as “the heartbeat of our military tradition, where pride in present achievements meets reverence for past sacrifices.” He commended the courage and dedication of Nigerian troops across all theatres of operation and assured them of the President and Commander-in-Chief’s unwavering commitment to troop welfare, operational support, and the continuous modernisation of the Armed Forces. As the regimental dinner commenced, the solemnity of remembrance and the spirit of comradeship combined to renew shared resolve, strengthen bonds, and inspire continued service to the nation with honour, professionalism, and selfless devotion.
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