The Plateau State Government on Thursday, January 15, 2026, joined the rest of the nation in commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with a solemn ceremony at the J.D. Gowon Secretariat, Jos.
Marked annually on January 15, Armed Forces Remembrance Day honours the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s unity, peace and territorial integrity, as well as those wounded or permanently disabled in the line of duty.
The ceremony featured interdenominational prayers for fallen heroes and for peace across the country, followed by the laying of wreaths, a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute of silence in honour of departed servicemen and women. Activities later culminated in a luncheon at the Headquarters of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.
Speaking at the luncheon held at the Rhino Officers’ Mess, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ngo Josephine Piyo, described the occasion as a solemn tribute to the bravery, sacrifice and resilience of Nigeria’s armed forces.
The governor noted that Plateau State remains proud of its long-standing tradition of military service and acknowledged the critical role of the armed forces in maintaining peace and security. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the military through sustained collaboration, provision of essential resources and the strengthening of civil–military relations.
Governor Mutfwang also emphasized the need to care for veterans and their families, stressing that the sacrifices of soldiers extend beyond the battlefield to their loved ones. He called for continued support in areas such as healthcare, education and employment for retired personnel.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander, Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, described the Remembrance Day as a moral duty to honour fallen heroes and appreciate serving personnel.
He said the observance serves as a reminder that peace is neither free nor passive but is sustained through sacrifice, professionalism and unwavering commitment. According to him, Operation Enduring Peace reflects the determination of the armed forces to protect communities, maintain stability and prevent conflict.
Major General Oyinlola paid tribute to veterans and the families of fallen soldiers, assuring them that their sacrifices would never be forgotten. He also commended the officers and soldiers under his command for their discipline, courage and dedication to duty amid evolving security challenges.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Plateau State, Colonel Adams Donzhi (rtd.), expressed appreciation to the Plateau State Government for its continued support to the Legion and veterans. He called for sustained care for widows, orphans and families of fallen heroes, urging all segments of society to contribute to their welfare.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, alongside renewed calls for collective support for the nation’s armed forces and
veterans.
