Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory have jointly pledged N320 million to support the Nigerian Legion at the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal launch.
This was contained in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
At the ceremony held at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, Tinubu announced a personal donation of N200 million to the legion.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, also donated N100 million on behalf of the National Assembly. The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, contributed N20 million.
Tinubu assured that his administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of serving personnel, injured officers, and families of fallen heroes.
He reminded Nigerians of the duty to honour those who served, saying, “As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve.”
He urged citizens to embrace unity and reject divisive tendencies. “As we honour our heroes, I call on every Nigerian to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect, tolerance, and understanding. Our diversity is a national asset that must be projected and cherished,” he said.
The President praised the military for restoring calm in many communities through joint operations. He noted the progress recorded in tackling insecurity, stating, “Tens and thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and many captives have been freed.”
Tinubu added that maritime security has improved, stressing that oil theft and piracy have been reduced. “As President and Commander in Chief, I remain committed to equipping and motivating our military because security is the central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
He appealed to institutions, businesses, and individuals to support the Nigerian Legion, explaining that the association provides care for retired soldiers and widows of fallen heroes.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to see the emblem as a symbol of support. He said, “When we wear this emblem, we say to our veterans, Nigeria remembers you. When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares.”
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, saluted the sacrifices of fallen and serving troops.
He said, “Behind every secured territory stand men and women whose courage defines our national character. Some continue to serve with visible and invisible scars, others paid the supreme price.”
He added that communities once troubled by conflict are gradually returning to normal life, noting that “children have resumed school, markets have been reopened, and families are rebuilding with dignity.”
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed every January 15 to honour fallen soldiers and celebrate surviving veterans.
