Kaduna, Jan. 13, 2026 (NAN) The Jaji Military Cantonment marked the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with a series of spiritual observances, honouring the sacrifices of past and present military personnel.
Lt.-Col.Ajemasu Jingina, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre said this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Kaduna.
Jingina said the commemorations began on Jan. 9, with a Jumma’at prayer at the Cantonment Central Mosque, followed by an interdenominational Church service on Jan. 11, at the Protestant Church.
The acting Deputy director said Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, Commander of the Infantry Corps Centre, (the Cantonment Commander) emphasised that AFCRD remained a cornerstone of national identity.
He said the commander was represented by Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja Commandant, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre and Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Yusuf, Director Special Forces at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre.
According to Mutkut the day serves as a vital tribute to the gallantry of both retired and serving members.
“No country has ever existed without the services of its Armed Forces.
“This day allows us to celebrate the selfless sacrifice of our fallen heroes who ensured Nigeria remains an indivisible entity,” he said.
The commander urged personnel to remain dedicated to their duties, describing military service as a “service to humanity and God.”
He issued a firm reminder to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, warning against any conduct that could tarnish the reputation of the military and the nation.
Mutkut thanked the Service Chiefs for their strategic guidance and resources necessary to fulfill the military mandate.
He assured the personnel that the leadership remained dedicated to improving their living standards and well-being.
The commander appreciated all the military families, particularly wives, for their resilience and support while troops were deployed.
He disclosed that during the services, Lt.- Col .AM Ja’afar (Cantonment Imam) and Lt.- Col. (Rev) ML Kunle (Protestant Chaplain) described the military as a noble calling.
“The clerics offered prayers for the repose of fallen souls and the divine protection of troops currently engaged in internal security operations nationwide.
“The events were attended by senior officers and their families, reflecting a unified front of remembrance and hope for the year ahead,” Jingina said. (NAN)
