Armed Forces Day in Nigeria Date in the current year: January 15, 2024

Armed Forces Day formerly was celebrated on November 11 and it coincided with the Remembrance Day in the British Commonwealth of Nations. This day was established to commemorate the veterans of World War I, but later it was also associated with people who died during World War II.

The government of Nigeria decided to change the date of Armed Forces Day and shifted it to January 15. This date is more significant for the country. On January 15, 1970, the Nigerian Civil War (also known as the Biafran War) ended.

Different events take place to commemorate veterans of the Nigerian Civil War. The events include release of pigeons as a symbol of peace, military parade, playing of the last post, placing wreaths on the graves of heroes, shooting guns etc. Event also witnesses religious services in mosques and churches nationwide. The Nigerians pray for men and women who laid down their lives for peace, unity and progress of the country.