President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal Fund in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, wounded veterans, and serving troops on the frontlines.
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A total of ₦320 million was donated at the brief ceremony held at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
President Tinubu led the contributions with ₦200 million, underscoring what he described as the nation’s “sacred duty” to support the families of fallen soldiers and care for those who continue to serve under difficult and dangerous conditions.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, contributed ₦100 million after being decorated with the emblem by the National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Mrs. Grace Morenike Henry. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, also announced a ₦20 million donation, bringing the total to ₦320 million.
Speaking at the launch, President Tinubu said Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, must remain a solemn occasion for the country to reaffirm its commitment to those who paid the ultimate price for national unity and peace.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answer the call to serve,” he said. “Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a reminder of the call to peace and the importance of unity.”
He praised serving troops for their courage in confronting terrorism, insurgency, banditry, oil theft, piracy, and other security threats, noting that their sacrifices have restored stability to many communities.
The President highlighted recent gains under his security reforms, including mass surrenders of tens of thousands of insurgents, the neutralisation of key terrorist leaders, improved joint operations, and strengthened maritime security, including reductions in oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing.
President Tinubu also announced that the Ministry of Defence is developing a programme to reclaim ungoverned spaces nationwide by deploying the expertise of retired military personnel. The initiative aims to secure vulnerable areas, restore government presence, and transform unstable zones into hubs of economic activity.
He unveiled the “Thank a Soldier” QR code platform, an innovation allowing Nigerians at home and abroad to send messages of appreciation to troops. “This initiative promotes digital engagement and encourages youth participation in national service,” he said.
The President urged Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and promote tolerance and mutual respect, describing the country’s diversity as a national asset that must be protected.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to the welfare of security personnel, he listed upgraded barracks, enhanced allowances, expanded healthcare through the Defence Health Maintenance Services Limited, and improved pension verification via BVN and NIN integration as ongoing interventions.
The appeal fund and emblem serve as symbols of national unity, gratitude, and support for the military’s sacrifices and ongoing commitment to Nigeria’s security and sovereignty. The initiative also ties into reforms aimed at improving veterans’ benefits and the creation of a Veterans Federation of Nigeria to strengthen legal frameworks and welfare support for ex-service members.
The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Senate President Akpabio; Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu; Ministers Mohammed Idris and Abubakar Bagudu; and leaders of the armed forces and intelligence agencies.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, Senate President Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Kalu, and service chiefs were decorated with the remembrance poppy by Morenike Grace Henry, Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion.
President Tinubu urged government institutions, businesses, and public-spirited individuals to donate generously to the legion, which supports retirees and widows of fallen military heroes.
Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the emblem as a symbol of support for fallen heroes and their families, thanking the President for improving military welfare and resources.
“When we wear this emblem, we tell our veterans that Nigeria remembers you,” Oluyede said. “When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares. When we stand together today, we declare that Nigeria will never abandon those who serve in her name.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, said the Remembrance Day honours the bravery and sacrifice of men and women who gave their lives defending the nation. He commended the President for enabling the reopening of schools, markets, and communities in formerly conflict-affected areas, noting that these restored moments are “victories that often go unsung but remain deeply felt across our nation.”
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 to honour fallen soldiers and recognise living veterans.
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