The Jaji Military Cantonment on Monday marked the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with a series of religious activities aimed at honouring the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen and serving military personnel.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, the commemorative activities began on Friday, January 9, with a Jumma’at prayer at the Cantonment Central Mosque, and were concluded with an interdenominational church service on Sunday, January 11, at the Protestant Church.
Lieutenant Colonel Jingina said the observances were organised to reflect on the courage, dedication and selfless service of members of the Armed Forces who have defended the nation’s unity and sovereignty.
Speaking at the event through his representatives, Major General GM Mutkut OFR, Commander of the Infantry Corps Centre and Cantonment Commander, described AFCRD as a vital part of Nigeria’s national identity and history.
“No country has ever existed without the services of its Armed Forces,” Mutkut said. “This day allows us to celebrate the selfless sacrifice of our fallen heroes who ensured Nigeria remains an indivisible entity.”
The commander, represented by Major General AT Adedoja, Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, and Brigadier General I. Yusuf, Director of Special Forces at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, urged officers and soldiers to remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties.
He described military service as “service to humanity and to God,” while cautioning personnel to uphold professionalism at all times and avoid actions capable of bringing disrepute to the Armed Forces and the nation.
Major General Mutkut also expressed appreciation to the Service Chiefs for their strategic leadership and continued support, noting that the resources and guidance provided were critical to the successful execution of the military’s mandate.
He assured troops that the Army leadership remained committed to improving their welfare and living conditions, and paid special tribute to military families, particularly spouses, for their patience, resilience and support during deployments.
During the religious services, Lt Col AM Ja’afar, the Cantonment Imam, and Lt Col (Rev) ML Kunle, the Protestant Chaplain, described the military profession as a “noble calling.”
They offered prayers for the repose of the souls of fallen personnel and sought divine protection for troops currently engaged in internal security operations across the country.
The events were attended by senior officers, soldiers and their families, underscoring a shared spirit of remembrance, unity and hope for the year ahead.
