4 Brigade Marks AFCRD 2026 with Interdenominational Church Service in Benin
By Matthew Eloyi
The 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with sister security formations, on Saturday held an interdenominational church service in Benin City as part of activities marking the Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026.
The service, which took place on January 11, brought together personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force, the Military Hospital, the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport (NASST) and members of the Nigerian Legion, Edo State Chapter, to honour and remember officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.
In his sermon, Lieutenant Colonel (Rev.) M.S. Dallys said the theme of the service was “Celebration of Victory and Remembrance of the Fallen Heroes.” Reading from 1 Samuel 17:45–51, he offered prayers for continued victory and success of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in all its operations at home and abroad.
He also prayed for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes of the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, and those who lost their lives during internal security operations and international peacekeeping missions.
The colourful service was well attended by senior military officers and other dignitaries, including the Commandant of NASST, Major General A.O. Adegbite, who read the First Lesson, and the Commander of the 107 Air Maritime Group of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore E.V. Onu, who read the Second Lesson.
Speaking at the event, the Commander of 4 Brigade, Brigadier General A.O. Balogun, said activities marking AFCRD 2026 in Edo State began on Friday, January 9, with a special Juma’at prayer at the Headquarters 4 Brigade Mosque.
He prayed for God’s mercy and eternal rest for fallen heroes and asked for divine protection and blessings for serving, retired and discharged personnel of the Armed Forces.
The AFCRD is observed annually to commemorate the sacrifices of Nigerian servicemen and women who have contributed to the nation’s peace, unity and security.
