It was a night of pride, reflection, and deep gratitude as Nigeria paused to say “thank you” to those who have stood on the frontlines to protect the nation 🇳🇬🪖
The Federal Government has conferred prestigious honours on senior officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, recognising their gallantry, sacrifice, innovation, and outstanding contributions to national security. The awards were presented at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day Gala and Award Night, held on Tuesday in Abuja.
One of the standout recipients was the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, who received the Service and Sacrifice Award for his selfless leadership and decisive role in counter-insurgency and internal security operations across the country.
Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, was also honoured with the Service and Sacrifice Award (Legacy Category) for his far-reaching reforms, expansion of operational capacity during his tenure, and his service as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.
Other distinguished recipients of the Service and Sacrifice Award included Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, and Maj.-Gen. Faruk Mijinyawa, former GOC of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Lagos.
Bravery on the battlefield also took centre stage. Brig.-Gen. Musa Uba received the Gallantry Award for leading troops from the front during counter-insurgency operations in Borno, while Brig.-Gen. Usman Ahmad earned the Mission Success Award for his key role in foiling repeated terrorist attacks under intense pressure.
Innovation wasn’t left out. Col. Ibrahim Mohammed-Gero clinched the Innovation Award for designing a redesigned ballistic gunboat that boosted operations under Operation DELTA SAFE.
Honours were also paid to fallen heroes. Late Col. B. Umaru was posthumously awarded the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Excellence Award for his vital intelligence contributions to Operation HADIN KAI, while Late Lt.-Col. Thomas Ebisingha-Alari received the Fallen Heroes Award for his role in major counter-terrorism operations in the North-East.
Veterans were equally celebrated. Retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, former Director of Army Public Relations, received the Sentinel of Freedom Award for his work in strategic military communication, peacekeeping, veterans’ welfare, and national security advocacy.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Aliyu was honoured with the Phoenix Award for his resilience and leadership, having continued to serve in senior defence roles despite being wounded in action.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, said the awards went far beyond individual achievements. According to him, each honour represents untold stories of courage, quiet sacrifice, and unwavering dedication—many carried out far from the public eye.
He paid special tribute to the families of fallen heroes, especially spouses, for bearing the silent weight of sacrifice, assuring them that their loved ones’ legacies would forever remain part of Nigeria’s history. He also praised military veterans whose service laid the foundation for today’s Armed Forces.
In his vote of thanks, Buratai expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Ministry of Defence for institutionalising the awards, describing the initiative as historic and meaningful. He applauded the President, Defence Minister, service chiefs, and the Inspector-General of Police for their resolve in restoring peace and security across the nation.
He also saluted troops currently on the frontlines, calling their sacrifices a lasting source of inspiration, and thanked Nigerians for their continued support for the military, veterans, and families of fallen heroes.
The annual Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day remains a powerful reminder of the courage, professionalism, and sacrifice that continue to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty.
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