Yesterday, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and President Muhammadu Buhari laid wreaths at the National Arcade in Eagle Square, Abuja, in remembrance of the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony. As he prepares to leave office on May 29 after serving two terms, the ceremony was Buhari’s final significant military duty as Commander-in-Chief.
Several other dignitaries took part in the solemn but festive occasion, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola.
In response to queries from reporters, the Chief of Defence Staff stated that the commemoration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day is not a day of sadness. He stated, “Today is the day when we need to give thanks to God for the men and women who have served, are serving, and will serve this great nation.”
In his remarks on the occasion, Obi stated: “Today marks 53 years since the formal conclusion of the civil war. Accept the fact that the battle is truly over. ‘Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand,’ should continue to be our national hymn.
“On this day, January 15, 2023, I most solemnly pledge and commit that I will devote the rest of my life to preventing the civil war and the events that caused it from recurring; and to ensuring that we build an all-inclusive and progressive society where no individual or group will be alienated, marginalized, or excluded.”
Veterans who are still alive are remembered on Armed Forces Remembrance Day. Additionally, it serves as a vehicle for raising moral, spiritual, and material assistance for the families of fallen heroes.
