The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the renaming of the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Remembrance and Veterans Day, in a move aimed at giving broader recognition to the sacrifices of serving and retired military personnel.

The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

Gusau explained that the renaming was approved by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to reflect the growing importance of honouring not only fallen heroes but also veterans who are alive and have rendered meritorious service to the nation.

According to him, the new name underscores the commitment of the military to acknowledge the courage, resilience and lifelong sacrifices of officers and soldiers who have served Nigeria in various capacities, including peacekeeping operations, internal security duties and conventional warfare.

“The Armed Forces Remembrance and Veterans Day is designed to honour our fallen heroes as well as appreciate our veterans who are still alive and have contributed immensely to the defence and unity of our country,” Gusau said.

He noted that the annual event, traditionally marked on Jan. 15, would continue to feature activities such as wreath-laying ceremonies, parades and prayers across the country, while placing greater emphasis on veteran welfare and recognition.

The defence spokesman added that the change aligned Nigeria with global best practices, where veterans are formally celebrated for their service and sacrifices long after retirement.

Gusau assured that the Defence Headquarters remained committed to improving the welfare of serving personnel, families of fallen heroes and military veterans through sustained policy support and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

He urged Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and to use the remembrance period to reflect on the price paid for the country’s peace, unity and sovereignty.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually to commemorate members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions and ongoing internal security operations.