President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has spearheaded a significant fundraising effort for the nation's military heroes, leading donations totalling N320 million at the official launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem appeal fund.
Presidential Leadership and Major Donations
The event, held at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, saw President Tinubu make a substantial personal donation of N200 million. He described the support for soldiers' families and wounded veterans as a "sacred duty" for the nation. Following the President's lead, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, contributed N100 million after being formally presented with the remembrance emblem by the National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Mrs. Grace Morenike Henry.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, rounded off the major announcements with a pledge of N20 million, bringing the collective sum to the impressive N320 million mark.
A Solemn Commitment to Fallen and Serving Heroes
In his address, President Tinubu emphasised that the annual January 15 commemoration must remain a profound moment for Nigeria to honour those who sacrificed their lives for national unity. "As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answer the call to serve," he stated.
He commended the courage of serving troops in combating diverse threats like terrorism, banditry, and oil theft, crediting their efforts with restoring stability to numerous communities. The President also outlined recent security gains under his administration, including:
- Mass surrenders of insurgents.
- Neutralisation of key terrorist leaders.
- Enhanced joint operations and maritime security.
New Initiatives for Security and Appreciation
President Tinubu unveiled several forward-looking programmes aimed at sustaining these gains. A key initiative involves the Ministry of Defence developing a scheme to deploy retired military personnel to reclaim ungoverned spaces, aiming to transform them into economic hubs.
In a move to foster public engagement, the President launched the "Thank a Soldier" QR code platform. This digital innovation allows Nigerians both at home and abroad to send direct messages of gratitude to troops on the frontlines, promoting national service participation among the youth.
Reaffirming his government's dedication to welfare, Tinubu listed ongoing interventions such as upgraded barracks, improved allowances, expanded healthcare, and streamlined pension verification processes. These efforts are part of broader reforms to enhance veterans' benefits, including work towards establishing a Veterans Federation of Nigeria.
The high-profile event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, several ministers, and top brass from the armed forces and intelligence agencies.
