The 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Regimental Dinner Night, held on 14 January 2026, was a dignified celebration of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s rich heritage, shared values and enduring spirit of unity.
Hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede, the event brought together top military leadership, with the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), attending as Special Guest of Honour. Also present were the Chief of the Air Staff, other Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Intelligence, underscoring the spirit of jointness, unity of command and regimental pride that define the Armed Forces family.
In his welcome address, the CDS described the regimental dinner as one of the Armed Forces’ most cherished traditions, blending solemn remembrance with discipline, fellowship and pride in the profession of arms. He paid tribute to the gallant officers and soldiers whose sacrifices laid the foundation of Nigeria’s freedom and continue to sustain peace and security nationwide. Despite evolving security challenges, he noted that Nigerian troops have remained steadfast, displaying courage and professionalism while strengthening civil-military relations and earning public confidence. He also acknowledged the vital role of the families of service personnel, whose support he described as indispensable to operational effectiveness.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Defence reaffirmed the resilience and professionalism of the Armed Forces, described the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as “the heartbeat of our military tradition, where pride in present achievements meets reverence for past sacrifices.” He commended troops for their dedication across all theatres of operation and assured them of the President and Commander-in-Chief’s unwavering commitment to troop welfare, operational support and the continuous modernisation of the Armed Forces.
The regimental dinner night combined solemn remembrance with warm comradeship, renewing shared resolve among officers and men and reinforcing their commitment to serve the nation with honour, professionalism and selfless devotion.
