Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (Rtd) has said that the Armed Forces Remembrance Celebration helps to reassure the families and relations of the fallen combatants that the nation will continue to be with them in paying respect to their departed relations, reaffirming that their death is not in vain.
Gen. Magashi made this disclosure during the press briefing to kick start the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, in National Defence College, Abuja.
He noted that the year 2022 celebration is significant as it will afford Nigerians the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made in the current war against insurgency by the Service personnel in maintaining national peace and security.
“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, 2022 is significant at this moment when the military is working relentlessly to motivate its force and enhance the will of our troops to fight and succumb the various security challenges in the country. Currently, members of the Armed Forces are more determined now than ever to confront and end the menace of terrorism in the North East region and other security challenges facing our great country, Nigeria,” he said.
The Minister remarked that the nation remains eternally grateful to the gallant men and women who paid the supreme price for the country’s survival and unity, urging both public and private sectors to support the veterans and the families of the fallen heroes.
Maj General Magashi, informed that activities lined up for the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration that would lead to its climax on Friday, 15th January, 2022 include:
President Muhammadu Buhari’s launch of the Emblem and appeal fund at the Council chamber in the Presidential Villa on 20th October, 2022; The Nigerian Legion Humanitarian Day on Friday, 15th October, 2021 at the Legion House, Area 3, Garki, Abuja; Religious Services on Friday, 7th January, 2022 for the Juma’at prayers at National mosque, followed by an Inter-Denominational Church Service on Sunday, 9th January, 2022 at the National Christian Centre, Abuja
The Minister said that the peak of the celebration will be the laying of wreath by Mr. President and other dignitaries at the National Cenotaph Abuja on Saturday, 15 January, 2022, adding that all events will take place simultaneously in all states of the Federation.
He appealed to every Nigerian and friends of Nigeria to identify with the veterans by purchasing the emblem and adorning it with pride as their contribution in supporting the families of the fallen heroes and surviving veterans.
Victoria Agba-Attah
Director (P & PR)
18th October, 2021
