President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday donated N200 million to the Nigerian Legion, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving military personnel, injured officers, and families of fallen heroes.
The donation was announced during the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, contributed N100 million, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, donated N20 million.
Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, top lawmakers, and service chiefs were decorated with the remembrance poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry.
Tinubu Calls for National Unity, Generosity
The President urged government institutions, corporate bodies, and individuals to support the Legion, which caters to military retirees, widows, and families of fallen soldiers.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,” he said.
He also appealed to Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace unity, describing the country’s diversity as “a national asset.”
Highlights Military Gains
Tinubu commended the Armed Forces for recent security successes, noting that thousands of insurgents had surrendered, several terrorist leaders neutralised, and many captives freed.
He also reported improved maritime security, with oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing significantly reduced.
“Under my administration, collaboration among security agencies has strengthened national stability,” he added.
The President listed several welfare improvements for troops and veterans, including enhanced allowances, better accommodation, upgraded healthcare services, and modernised pension verification through BVN and NIN.
Military Leadership Expresses Appreciation
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to view the remembrance emblem as a symbol of collective gratitude to fallen heroes and support for their families.
“When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares,” he said, commending the President’s continued support for improved hardware, training, and welfare.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, said Remembrance Day pays tribute to troops who lost their lives defending the nation and honours serving personnel confronting terrorism, banditry, and other threats.
He added that many communities once plagued by conflict are now experiencing normalcy, with schools and markets reopened, thanks to the sacrifices of security forces.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15.
