The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, was notably absent on Thursday as senior government officials and top military officers converged in Abuja for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
The solemn annual ceremony took place at the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier in Eagle Square, Abuja, and was dedicated to honouring officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the nation. The event also recognised the enduring sacrifices of serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
Although the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, was present at the venue, it remained unclear whether she officially represented the FCT Minister at the ceremony.
Her arrival coincided with that of Vice President Kashim Shettima, a development that led protocol officials to bar her from accessing the saluting dais during the general salute.
Despite this, Bunkure later joined other dignitaries in accompanying the Vice President to lay wreaths at the cenotaph in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
Credit: Guardian
