The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has faulted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for not attending the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony, describing his absence as inappropriate for a national event meant to honour fallen military personnel.
The annual remembrance ceremony was held on Thursday, January 15, at the National Cenotaph in Eagle Square, Abuja. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented the President and led the observance, which honours members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who lost their lives in the line of duty.
President Tinubu was absent from the event as he is currently in the United Arab Emirates, where he is participating in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026.
Reacting to the development, the ADC issued a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, to mark the remembrance day. While paying tribute to fallen and serving military personnel, the opposition party strongly criticised the President’s decision to be away from the country during what it described as a solemn and symbolic national occasion.
According to the party, the presence of the Commander-in-Chief at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony carries deep moral and symbolic importance, especially at a time when Nigerian troops are engaged in multiple security operations across the country.
The ADC argued that leadership in moments of national reflection should not be delegated, stressing that the physical presence of the President serves as a powerful message of solidarity with soldiers and their families.
The party further urged the federal government to go beyond ceremonial gestures, calling for stronger political commitment, clearer security strategies, and responsible leadership that reflects the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
“Remembrance must be more than wreath-laying and speeches. It must be matched by leadership that shows up, takes responsibility, and demonstrates genuine commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians,” the ADC stated.
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The party concluded by reaffirming its support for serving personnel and military families, noting that their sacrifices must be honoured through competent governance and decisive action on national security.
