Maryam Aminu
In anticipation of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has laid out a series of high-impact initiatives.
Badaru made the announcement during a press briefing today at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, outlined the nation’s ongoing security efforts, advances in the military sector, and the government’s commitment to veteran welfare, with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day serving as a momentous opportunity to honor Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
The 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, scheduled for January 15, 2025, will commemorate the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers who laid down their lives, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.
The Minister emphasized the symbolic importance of this day, stressing the need to remember and support both veterans and the families of fallen servicemen and women.
Badaru discussed Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry.
He noted that although the country has faced serious security challenges for more than a decade, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant progress in restoring peace and security.
“Thanks to the resilience and dedication of our troops, we now have a situation that is under control,” the Minister stated.
He revealed that more than 100,000 insurgents have surrendered in recent months, and several top commanders have been eliminated in coordinated operations.
The Minister also highlighted the success of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads.
He mentioned a notable operation in June 2024, during which the MNJTF neutralized terrorists and rescued 34 women and children in the Lake Chad region.
Furthermore, Nigerian Air Force airstrikes in Katsina State resulted in the elimination of over 80 terrorists, contributing to a 65% reduction in security breaches across the country.
While hinting the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), he explained that the DICON Act, signed into law in November 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, has paved the way for Nigeria to become self-reliant in the production of military hardware, munitions, and ammunition.
“The revitalization of DICON is not just about bolstering our defence capabilities, it is a move toward national pride, self-sufficiency, and economic growth,” Abubakar stated.
He called on private and corporate investors to explore the opportunities DICON presents, particularly as the Ministry has already signed multiple agreements with local and foreign partners to establish a Military Industrial Complex in Nigeria.
This initiative will not only create thousands of jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s defence technology sector. By producing munitions and equipment locally, the country stands to save millions of dollars that would have otherwise gone into imports, bolstering the local economy and strengthening the Naira.
The Honourable Minister outlined the series of activities planned for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, with a focus on remembering fallen heroes, supporting veterans, and honoring military personnel.
According to him, “The Notable activities include Nigerian Legion Humanitarian Day Scheduled for October 2, 2024, this event will see Legionnaires engage in community service while empowering the widows and orphans of fallen heroes across the nation.
Also, there will be Emblem Launch by President Tinubu On October 23, 2024, President Tinubu will lead the launch of the official emblem for the 2025 celebration at the State House in Abuja. And also Jumma’at prayers at the National Mosque on January 10, 2025, followed by an interdenominational service at the National Christian Centre on January 12, 2025. These will be held in honor of Nigeria’s veterans.
Wreath Laying CeremonyOn January 15, 2025, President Tinubu and other dignitaries will lay wreaths at the National Arcade in Abuja. This will be replicated in all states of the Federation, with governors leading the ceremony.”
The welfare of Nigeria’s veterans was a central theme of the press briefing, with Minister outlining several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for veterans and their families. Among the key projects is the establishment of Skills Acquisition Centres in each geopolitical zone.
He disclosed that the first of these centres, located in Taraba State, is nearing completion and will soon be operational.
“These centres are expected to equip veterans, widows, and dependants of fallen heroes with essential skills to support their livelihoods.” He added
The Minister also addressed issues surrounding military pensions, assuring veterans that the Military Pensions Board (MPB) is actively working to ensure regular pension payments and the prompt resolution of all grievances related to the Security Debarment Allowance (SDA).
Badaru called on all Nigerians to use the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the military and to foster national unity.
He also urged the media to provide extensive coverage of the day’s events, ensuring that the public remains aware of the enduring contributions of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
As the Ministry of Defence gears up for this significant occasion, it remains dedicated to bolstering national security, supporting the Armed Forces, and honoring the memory of Nigeria’s military heroes.
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