ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, fnipr, has joined Nigerians across the country to honour the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of officers and men of the Armed Forces and other security agencies as the nation marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Delta State Chapter Public Relations Officer of the Institute, Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., the NIPR described the annual observance as a solemn moment for reflection on the priceless sacrifices of gallant Nigerians who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation’s sovereignty, while also appreciating those who continue to safeguard lives and property under extremely challenging and life-threatening conditions.
Speaking during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Cenotaph in Asaba on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Osakwe said the significance of the day transcends ceremonial traditions.
“Armed Forces Remembrance Day is not just a ceremonial event; it is a national call to gratitude and responsibility,” he said. “It reminds us that the peace and freedoms we enjoy today are secured by the courage, discipline and ultimate sacrifices of our gallant men and women in uniform. As a people, we must never take their service for granted.”
The NIPR chairman stressed that remembrance should extend beyond annual wreath-laying ceremonies to include consistent and tangible support for serving personnel and the families of fallen heroes.
According to him, government, corporate organisations and citizens all have a collective responsibility to improve the welfare, morale and professional development of members of the armed forces and other security agencies.
“Honouring our fallen heroes must go hand in hand with caring for the living, through improved welfare, adequate equipment and sustained public appreciation,” Osakwe added. “This is how we truly uphold the values of duty, honour and national unity which our armed forces represent.”
The NIPR Delta State Chapter also charged public relations practitioners and the media to act responsibly in shaping narratives that promote national cohesion, respect for security institutions and recognition of the sacrifices made daily by security personnel in keeping the country safe.
As Nigeria reflects on the significance of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Institute urged citizens to renew their commitment to peace, unity and patriotism in honour of the men and women who have given their all in service to the nation.
