By Halima Imam
When the calendar flips to January 15 every year, Nigerians dust off their starched uniforms and pull out their finest gele and agbada for Armed Forces Remembrance Day. It’s a day to honor our gallant heroes, the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who have stood between us and chaos. But let’s be honest, how many of us truly reflect on the sacrifices they make, or do we just see it as another public holiday to chop rice and watch reruns of Super Story?
As the host of A Salute to Service, a radio show and an anthology of poems dedicated to our military. I’ve had the privilege of interacting with some of Nigeria’s finest patriots. Their stories are enough to make you both laugh and cry, as they recount their triumphs and sacrifices with that unique Nigerian humor and resilience. Trust me, if you think your 9-to-5 is hard, try standing under the scorching sun in Sambisa Forest, dodging bullets and scorpions, while your commander shouts, “Forward ever, backward never!”
Our armed forces are more than uniforms and parades. These are people who Eid and Christmas with their families to keep us safe, who endure harsh terrains while some of us complain about potholes on our way to Shoprite. They face dangers that most of us can’t imagine. Yet, many of us forget to say the simplest words: Thank you.
This year, let’s change the narrative. Nigeria’s military personnel deserve more than the occasional side-eye or “e no concern me” attitude. They deserve our respect, our support, and yes, even our gratitude.
So, how can we show this gratitude? Here:
Say It Loud: When you see a soldier or military officer, greet them warmly. No need to shout “Oga, well done o!” from across the street. A simple “Thank you for your service” will do.
Support Military Families: Many families of our fallen heroes struggle to make ends meet. A small gesture, a donation, a scholarship fund, or even a plate of jollof rice can go a long way.
Respect the Uniform: Next time you encounter a military checkpoint, resist the urge to complain. Remember, they’re doing their job to keep us all safe. Show some patience and maybe even a smile, after all, nobody likes a grumpy civilian!
Participate in Events: Attend Remembrance Day ceremonies, donate to military causes, and fly the Nigerian flag with pride. It’s not about showing off; it’s about showing up.
Let’s also remember that our military is not perfect. Like any other institution, it has its challenges. But criticizing from the comfort of your air-conditioned office without acknowledging the risks they take is like eating suya and forgetting the hard work of the mai suya.
This Armed Forces Remembrance Day, let’s make it personal. Write a letter to a soldier. Post a tribute on social media. Say a prayer for the families of those who paid the ultimate price. Let them know that we see them, we appreciate them, and we’re grateful for their service.
As for me, I’ll be dedicating my next episode of A Salute to Service to our heroes. I might even throw in a poem or two from my anthology, something to remind us all that the bravery of our military deserves more than a nod; it deserves a standing ovation.
So, Nigerians, rise to the occasion. Let’s honor our armed forces not just on January 15, but every single day. They’ve given us their best; it’s only fair we give them ours. After all, “na who wear the shoe know where e dey pain am.” God bless the Nigerian Armed Forces. God bless Nigeria.
Whether on the battlefield, in peacekeeping missions, or during disaster relief efforts, our armed forces embody resilience, discipline, and an unyielding spirit. They are the unsung heroes of our democracy, standing guard while we sleep soundly.
Yet, their sacrifices often go unnoticed, buried under the weight of daily hustle or the latest gist about Big Brother Naija. But let me remind you: freedom is not free. Behind every peaceful election, every secure border, and every moment of calm in volatile regions, there’s a soldier, a sailor, or an airman who has given up comfort so you and I can enjoy ours.
Think about this: when last did you hear a soldier complain about small salary or delayed allowance? Even if they grumble, they still stand at attention, rifle in hand, ready to defend Nigeria at all costs. How many of us would agree to such sacrifices? Be honest, most of us won’t even let go of our generator during NEPA wahala, let alone our lives.
It’s high time we stop taking these sacrifices for granted. We need to celebrate our armed forces, not just with parades and gun salutes, but with policies that improve their welfare, with opportunities that uplift their families, and with attitudes that show we value their service.
Nigerians, let’s rise above the habit of praising our military only during crises. If we wait until danger comes knocking to shout “God bless our soldiers,” we’ve missed the point. Gratitude should not be seasonal. Whether it’s a sunny day in Abuja or a rainy night in Maiduguri, the courage of our armed forces is constant and so should our appreciation be.
So this Armed Forces Remembrance Day, don’t just dress up and clap during the ceremony. Take a moment to reflect. Light a candle for those we’ve lost. Extend a hand to those still serving. Let your children know the names of our military heroes, yes, include them alongside Dangote and Wizkid in your list of Nigerian legends.
And for those who think, “Ah, this doesn’t concern me,” remember this: if Nigeria isn’t safe, nobody is safe. It concerns all of us. Let’s show love to our armed forces not just with words but with actions. After all, even in the midst of danger, they still manage to keep Nigeria standing tall.
To our gallant men and women in uniform, this is for you: we see your sacrifices, and we honor your bravery. You are the heartbeat of our nation’s security, and we salute your service, not just today but every day.
*Imam writes from axk4lima@gmail.com
