Asaba, Delta State – January 15, 2026 – Delta State joined the rest of Nigeria in a poignant and dignified commemoration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day on Thursday, January 15, 2026, with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in Asaba. The event served as a powerful tribute to the nation's fallen heroes, wounded veterans, and serving personnel who continue to safeguard the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, led a distinguished assembly of top government officials, military leaders, and community figures in honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria's freedom and unity.
The ceremony commenced with Governor Oborevwori being accorded a traditional military salute upon arrival. He then proceeded to inspect a meticulously mounted guard of honour comprising officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces alongside members of the Nigerian Legion. The parade showcased impeccable discipline, precision, and a profound sense of national pride and unity.
A minute of silence was observed in deep reverence for the departed heroes, creating a moment of profound reflection across the gathering. This was followed by heartfelt interfaith prayers led by Christian and Muslim clerics. The prayers sought the eternal repose of the souls of the fallen, comfort for their grieving families, improved welfare for veterans, and divine wisdom and protection for Nigeria's leaders and security forces.
Governor Oborevwori then led the wreath-laying ritual at the ceremonial tomb of the unknown soldier. He was joined by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Chief Judge, Justice Tessy Diai; Service Commanders of the Armed Forces in the state; the Commissioner of Police; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu; Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe, HRM Maj-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.); members of the Nigerian Legion; and other senior government functionaries.
The ceremony reached an emotional crescendo with the firing of ceremonial volleys, a traditional military salute that echoed across the Cenotaph grounds. In a symbolic gesture of peace, hope, and renewal, Governor Oborevwori released white pigeons into the sky, reaffirming Delta State's unwavering commitment to the ideals of sacrifice, patriotism, and national unity for which countless heroes laid down their lives.
The event also featured members of the Nigerian Legion, veterans, and families of fallen soldiers, whose presence underscored the enduring legacy and ongoing sacrifices of Nigeria's military community.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day remains one of Nigeria's most significant national observances, held annually on January 15 to honour soldiers, sailors, airmen, and other security personnel who lost their lives in defense of the nation—both in past conflicts and ongoing operations against insurgency, banditry, and other threats.
The day serves as a solemn reminder of the immense cost of freedom, the importance of supporting veterans and families of the fallen, and the collective duty of all citizens to uphold peace, unity, and patriotism for future generations.
The national commemoration was officially launched earlier by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, when he unveiled the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem appeal fund. The fund aims to provide sustained support for wounded veterans, families of deceased heroes, and frontline troops engaged in various security operations across the country.
In Delta State, the ceremony reflected the administration's deep respect for the military and its commitment to national cohesion. Governor Oborevwori's leadership in the event highlighted the state's solidarity with Nigeria's armed forces and its dedication to fostering a society that values sacrifice and service.
As the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day drew to a close, the atmosphere in Asaba was one of quiet reflection, gratitude, and renewed resolve. The day's activities served as a powerful call for continued support for Nigeria's heroes—past, present, and future—ensuring their legacy endures as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the nation.
