They were someone’s child, someone’s spouse, an uncle, an aunt. Many were the breadwinners of their families. Yet, they left behind the comfort of their homes and the embrace of their loved ones to fight for peace and unity in our nation.

These heroes gave their sweat, their blood, and, for many, their lives, all to secure a better future where peace and justice could thrive.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) is a solemn annual event in Nigeria, held every January 15. It commemorates the valour and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces—both active service members and veterans—as well as those who paid the ultimate price. It also honours the veterans of World War I, World War II, and the Nigerian Civil War.

This day is not merely a date on the calendar but a poignant reminder of the high cost of freedom. It serves as a call to reflect on the bravery and resilience of service members and their families, and it is a moment to acknowledge their enduring legacy.

AFRD is more than just a day to wear symbolic poppies or attend parades. It is an opportunity to recognise the profound sacrifices made for the nation’s betterment. These heroes, past and present, remind us of the price paid for our sovereignty and the freedom we often take for granted.

However, remembrance should not end with ceremony and speeches. Behind every fallen soldier is a family left to grapple with their absence. These families, often thrust into hardship, bear the weight of their loved one’s sacrifice. For some, the breadwinner is gone, leaving children unable to continue schooling or families unable to make ends meet.

While the government has made efforts to support these families, it is clear that no government can do it alone. Private organisations and individuals must rise to the occasion. Empowerment programs, educational scholarships, and reserved employment opportunities for the families of fallen heroes can make a world of difference.

Widows of fallen soldiers, for instance, deserve tailored programs that enable them to provide for their children and sustain their households. Similarly, the children of these heroes should be guaranteed access to quality education and meaningful employment, ensuring their future is secure.

Research has revealed countless untold stories of hardship among these families—stories of resilience despite dire circumstances. It is our collective responsibility to ensure these stories become ones of hope and support.

As citizens, we must ask ourselves: What role can we play in ensuring our heroes’ labour is not in vain? Beyond government initiatives, individual acts of kindness, donations, and advocacy can go a long way in cushioning the effects of their loss. Let us extend a helping hand wherever possible, be it through mentorship, financial assistance, or emotional support.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day is more than a day to honour the past; it is also a call to action. It challenges us to uphold the ideals for which these heroes fought—peace, justice, and unity. It reminds us that the true tribute to their sacrifices is striving for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and understanding rather than violence and war.

In conclusion, Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a solemn yet inspiring occasion. By honouring the sacrifices of our service members and supporting their families, we ensure their legacies live on. Let us commit to being a part of this effort, creating a society where their labour is not in vain.

Nosimot Soneye writes from Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital, and can be reached on 08080112623.