Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday sought divine intervention for Nigeria’s security forces while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to continually support and strengthen the Armed Forces in tackling the nation’s security challenges.

Speaking at a special Juma’at prayer to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day at the National Mosque, Abuja, Shettima paid tribute to fallen officers and men who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens.

He commended the courage, resilience and patriotism of serving personnel across the Armed Forces and other security agencies, stressing that their sacrifices would not be in vain under the current administration.

The Vice President assured that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in equipping and empowering the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the resources, tools and institutional support needed to decisively address terrorism, banditry and other threats to national peace.

January 15 is observed annually by the Federal Government to honour the Armed Forces. The observance was recently renamed Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day to reflect its dual purpose of celebrating serving personnel and remembering those who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

Leading prayers at the event, Shettima asked Almighty Allah to forgive the souls of fallen heroes and grant their families the strength to bear their irreparable losses.

“We pray that Allah forgives our departed officers and men and grants their families the fortitude to endure these painful sacrifices,” he said.

“We also pray that the Almighty continues to protect and empower our armed forces to subdue all the crises bedevilling our nation. By God’s grace, in the fullness of time, Nigeria shall enjoy enduring peace and prosperity.”

He expressed optimism that with sustained government support, professional commitment by the security forces and divine guidance, Nigeria would move steadily towards stability, unity and national renewal.