By Harriet Tornguvan
As part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, has organised a special programme to honour the families of serving, retired and fallen officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The event, tagged Humanitarian Family and Community Day, was held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, and brought together families from the three services of the Nigerian military.
Speaking at the occasion, the wife of the Minister of Defence, Oghogho Lilian Christopher Musa, who was the Special Guest of Honour, described the programme as a meaningful platform to express love, care and solidarity with the families of Nigeria’s fallen heroes and serving personnel.
She noted that the Family and Community Day goes beyond ceremonial observance, as it is deliberately designed to recognise, appreciate and uplift the families and children of officers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation, as well as those whose loved ones are currently deployed on operations.
Mrs Musa emphasised that behind every gallant officer is a family whose strength, patience and sacrifice contribute immensely to national security, urging Nigerians to view support for military families as both a moral and national obligation.
In her welcome address, the wife of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Hassana Pheelangwah, said the event was set aside for fun and fellowship with military families, while also serving as a gesture of heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices, courage and dedication of the nation’s soldiers.
She explained that the theme of the event, “Celebrating the Strength Behind Our Soldiers,” underscores the often-unseen role of families in sustaining the courage displayed by the Armed Forces on the battlefield.
According to her, while the bravery of soldiers is evident in combat, the true backbone of that courage lies at home in the patience of spouses, the resilience of children and the unwavering support of families who endure prolonged separations and uncertainty.
The event featured various games and recreational activities aimed at promoting unity, healing and encouragement among military families. These included a family honour parade, tug-of-war, egg race, bouncing castles, mini-games and dance competitions.
The Family and Community Day remains a key component of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations, reinforcing national appreciation for the Armed Forces and strengthening the bond between the military, their families and the wider society.
