Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Thursday led top government officials, traditional rulers and security chiefs to honour Nigeria’s fallen and serving military personnel as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
The ceremony, held at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Square, Makurdi, featured the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Governor Alia, accompanied by his deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, members of the State Executive Council, leadership of the Benue State House of Assembly, senior judicial officers and service commanders, paid tribute to officers and men who lost their lives in defence of the nation.
The governor was the first to lay a wreath, followed by his deputy, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Alfred Emberga, and the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse while others included the Och’Idoma, Dr. John Elaigwu Odogbo, representatives of the Nigerian Legion and serving security personnel.
Alia who later signed the anniversary register and inspected a guard of honour mounted by security operatives told journalists shortly after the ceremony, that the Armed Forces were worthy of applause for their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property.
He stressed that the unity of Nigeria remains the greatest honour to those who paid the supreme price in defence of the country’s peace and territorial integrity.
He also called for sustained support for families of fallen heroes, noting that the ceremony was both a moment of remembrance and a reminder of national responsibility.
The event featured interdenominational prayers by Christian and Muslim clerics, a 21-gun salute and the release of pigeons to symbolise peace in the state.
Earlier activities marking the celebration included Jumat prayers at the Central Mosque and a Christian interdenominational service at the Deeper Life Bible Church, High Level, Makurdi.
The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, formerly known as Armed Forces Remembrance Day, is observed annually on January 15 in Nigeria to honour soldiers who died in the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions and internal security operations, as well as to celebrate serving personnel.
Dignitaries at the event included members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, party leaders, the Military Widows Association, Officers’ Wives Association and members of the public. Free medical outreach and refreshments were also provided for attendees.
