If we are really serious about moving forward as a nation, we need to re-think the celebration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day on 15 January.
INVESTIGATION: Despite ban in several countries, ‘harmful’ weight gain product sold indiscriminately in NigeriaStrengthening Nigeria’s democracy: Pathway to good governance and political integrity, By Mahamudu BawumiaSPECIAL REPORT: Worksite crèches empower Nigerian women to balance careers, motherhoodINVESTIGATION: Despite ban in several countries, ‘harmful’ weight gain product sold indiscriminately in NigeriaStrengthening Nigeria’s democracy: Pathway to good governance and political...
Unfortunately, given that 15 January was also the Day the First military coup took place, Nigeria’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day has unfortunately turned to be a Day to re-open old wounds on both sides of the conflict because every finger pointing leads to counter-finger pointing. What caused the war? Depending on which side you are, explanations of what caused the Civil War differ. For many on the federal side, the war was simply caused by the desire of the people of the former Eastern Nigeria to secede from Nigeria as the Republic of Biafra and the decision of the rest of the country to fight to keep Nigeria one. For most Igbos, the Civil War was simply a war of self-preservation caused by the pogrom against them in the North.
What caused the war? Depending on which side you are, explanations of what caused the Civil War differ. For many on the federal side, the war was simply caused by the desire of the people of the former Eastern Nigeria to secede from Nigeria as the Republic of Biafra and the decision of the rest of the country to fight to keep Nigeria one. For most Igbos, the Civil War was simply a war of self-preservation caused by the pogrom against them in the North.
I believe that if we are really serious about moving forward as a nation, we need to re-think the celebration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day on 15 January, as it has degenerated into being a day of opening healing wounds on both sides of the conflict. One of the effects is that we remain stuck in the ugly events of the past, rather than making conscious efforts to move beyond them.
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Nigeria Latest News, Nigeria Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Armed Forces Remembrance: Shettima, Akpabio, others honour fallen heroesThe event, which involved the laying of wreaths at the National Arcade in Abuja, was the climax of activities for the 2025 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
Read more »
Shettima Leads Dignitaries in Commemorating Armed Forces Remembrance DayVice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony in Abuja, laying the first wreath at the Eagles Square. The event, held annually on January 15th, honors fallen compatriots and living veterans of the Nigerian armed forces.
Read more »
President Tinubu Sends Message to Nigerians on Armed Forces Remembrance DayA Trusted Nigerian Newspaper
Read more »
Philanthropist Obafemi Honors Nigerian Armed Forces on Remembrance DayOtunba Peter Obafemi, a prominent Ekiti State governorship aspirant, praises the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces on Armed Forces Remembrance Day, January 15th. He acknowledges their efforts in maintaining peace, security, and national stability. Obafemi expresses gratitude to serving officers and commends the Nigeria Legion of Ex-servicemen for their support of veterans.
Read more »
Bishop Hamawa Urges Government to Prioritize Armed Forces' WelfareCatholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Charles Hamawa, calls for improved welfare and equipment for Nigerian armed forces, emphasizing the need for adequate resources and independence to combat insecurity.
Read more »
Abia Governor Reiterates Commitment to Security, Commends Armed ForcesAbia State Governor Alex Otti reaffirms his commitment to working with security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the state during the 2025 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day.
Read more »