By Harriet Tornguvan
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated that January 15 is officially designated as Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, not Armed Forces Remembrance Day, as commonly reported.
In a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) explained that the annual event is set aside to honour serving military personnel while also remembering officers and men who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation’s territorial integrity and the lives and property of citizens.
The commemoration is preceded by a week-long programme of activities and culminates in a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the name was deliberately changed from Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day to reflect the dual essence of the occasion celebrating the courage, commitment and professionalism of serving personnel, while paying solemn tribute to fallen heroes.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria has therefore appealed to members of the media, described as the fourth estate of the realm, to adopt and consistently use the official designation in all future reports and coverage.
The military high command also expressed appreciation to the media for its continued support in national security efforts and assured of sustained collaboration in the collective fight against insecurity.
The statement was signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, Defence Headquarters.
