The Nigerian Army, on Friday, held special Jumaat prayers in Kano to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, offering prayers for fallen heroes and seeking divine support in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges.

The prayers, held at the Nigerian Air Force Base Central Mosque in Kano, brought together officers, soldiers and personnel of sister security agencies, alongside Muslim faithful, to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sqn. Ldr. Raji Hanafi, urged troops to remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to national service, stressing that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes must not be in vain.

Mr Hanafi said peace, unity and stability were critical  to  national development, and called on Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through prayers and cooperation.

In his sermon, Sub-Lt. Sani Abubakar prayed for the repose of the souls of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

He also prayed for God’s protection and guidance for personnel currently engaged in operations across the country.

Mr Abubakar further enjoined troops to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties, noting that victory over insurgency required both military effort and divine intervention.

Speaking after the prayers, the commander, 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Kano, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Tukur, said the observance was meant to honour fallen heroes and seek divine guidance and protection for serving personnel.

Mr Tukur described Armed Forces Remembrance Day as a period of sober reflection on the sacrifices made by officers and men in the defence of the nation.

He said the Jumaat prayers were organised to seek the repose of the souls of those who died in the course of efforts to restore peace in the country.

Also speaking, the commandant, Nigerian Navy Logistics College, Dawakin Tofa, Kano, Commodore Ahmad Madawaki, urged the military to remain resolute in its commitment to restore peace and security across the country.

Mr Madawaki also prayed for the souls of fallen heroes and for success in ongoing operations against insurgents and other criminals.

The the joint prayers were attended by the commandant, 455 Base Services Group, Nigerian Air Force, Capt. Muhammed Borgu; the commandant, Nigerian Navy Logistics College, Commodore Ahmad Madawaki; the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori; and heads of the FRSC, NSCDC and NDLEA, among others.

(NAN)