Every year, we pay special homage to those who died in service to their country. We remember and acknowledge the courage of these brave men and women for their selfless service and their unconditional love for the unity of our beloved country, Nigeria. Armed Forces Remembrance Day or Remembrance Day embodies and rekindles the vision of oneness in our beloved country. Being a former colony of the British, Remembrance Day was formerly celebrated on the 11th of November. Upon the government’s victory against Biafran troops on January 15, 1970, the day was moved to the 15th of January.
Every year of this celebration, it is pertinent to ask certain questions with regards to the lessons we have learnt in the aftermath of this celebration. Over the years, this event has been thought to have inspired national consciousness, unity and federal principles. Considering the present situation in the country, it is pertinent to ask the extent to which the celebration has fostered these issues.
Indeed, national patriots are heroes to be praised and given due recognition for their loyalty in discharge of their duty, compared to negligence, greed, corruption, and embezzlement of public funds.
This annual celebration is a subtle reminder that Nigeria and Nigerians can grow past ethnoreligious crisis, social crisis and economic development.
Oloko Abdulrahman, [email protected]
READ ALSO: Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Ododo urges Nigerians to unite