Former Vice President and ex-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has paid tribute to fallen soldiers and serving personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, commending their courage, sacrifice and dedication to national unity and security.
In a message posted on his verified X handle on Thursday to mark Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Atiku said he and his family joined millions of Nigerians in honouring military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
“Today, my family and I join millions of Nigerians in solemn remembrance and deep gratitude to the brave men and women of our Armed Forces,” he said.
He honoured troops who made what he described as the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, while also saluting officers and soldiers currently serving across the country.
“We honour those who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation, and we salute those who continue to serve with courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and unity of our country,” Atiku stated.
The former vice president noted that the selflessness and resilience of military personnel remain a reminder that Nigeria’s freedoms were secured through patriotism and devotion to duty.
He also expressed appreciation to serving and retired members of the Armed Forces, thanking them for their continued service and sacrifices to the country.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to honour Nigerian military personnel who died in the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and various peacekeeping and internal security operations.
The day is marked nationwide with wreath-laying ceremonies, military parades and the sounding of the Last Post, while also recognising the contributions of veterans and serving officers to Nigeria’s sovereignty and peacekeeping efforts at home and abroad.