Defence Ministry Hosts National Symposium To Commemorate 2026 Armed Force Celebration and Remembrance Day
As part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, the Ministry of Defence held a high-level National Symposium and Lecture Series at the National Defence College (NDC) on Monday, 12th January 2026.
The event, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development,” served as a platform for strategic discourse on the evolving role of the military in the nation’s socio-economic and security architecture.
High-Profile Attendance
The symposium was graced by the top hierarchy of Nigeria’s defence and security establishment. The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) OFR, presided over the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour.
Other prominent dignitaries in attendance included General O.O. Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, The Service Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Senior officials from Various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Highlights of the Proceedings
The ceremony commenced with a Welcome Address by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, followed with a keynote address by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) where he emphasized the inseparable link between national security and sustainable development. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces to meet contemporary challenges.
The intellectual core of the event featured:
Historical Perspective: A video documentary detailing the evolution of the Nigerian Armed Forces from 1863 to the present day.
Visual Exhibition: An electronic photo exhibition showcasing the military’s milestones and peacekeeping efforts.
Technical Session: A lead paper presentation on the event’s theme, by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TY Buratai followed by a robust panel discussion and a Question-and-Answer session involving security experts and stakeholders.
Closing and Presentations
Following the deliberations, the Honourable Minister of Defence presented souvenirs to the Guest Lecturer, moderators, and discussants in recognition of their contributions to the symposium’s success.
The event concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks and a reception, marking a successful start to the week’s commemorative activities for Nigeria’s fallen heroes and serving personnel.
