Activities commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day concluded on Thursday in Delta State with a dignified ceremony at the Cenotaph in Asaba, where Nigeria’s fallen heroes were honoured in a show of unity, gratitude and national reflection.
The event, which drew top government officials and security chiefs, was presided over by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
He was joined by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor; and the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Tessy Diai.
Senior officers of the Armed Forces, the Commissioner of Police, and other security stakeholders were also present.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu; the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe, His Royal Majesty Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.); members of the Nigerian Legion; and several top government functionaries.
Oborevwori, who served as Special Guest of Honour, arrived to full military honours and took time to inspect a guard of honour mounted by personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Nigerian Legion.
The parade reflected discipline, professionalism and national pride.
Proceedings featured a minute of silence in memory of soldiers who paid the ultimate price in defence of the country.
Christian and Muslim clerics later led prayers, seeking eternal rest for the fallen, comfort for their families, improved welfare for veterans, and wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders.
The high point of the ceremony was the laying of wreaths at the tomb of the unknown soldier.
Oborevwori led service commanders, the Commissioner of Police, representatives of traditional institutions, legionnaires and senior officials in the symbolic tribute.
A ceremonial gun salute followed, alongside the release of white pigeons by the governor, representing peace, hope and renewal, as well as the state’s continued dedication to the ideals of sacrifice, unity and patriotism.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day remains a significant national observance, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices that underpin Nigeria’s freedom and the collective duty to uphold peace and cohesion.
The 2026 remembrance season was earlier flagged off on December 2, 2025, when President Bola Tinubu launched the emblem appeal fund in honour of fallen heroes, injured veterans and troops currently serving on the frontlines.
