President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday announced a N200m donation to the Nigerian Legion as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal launch.
Speaking at the event held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of serving military personnel, injured officers and the families of fallen heroes.
The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, contributed N100m, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, donated N20m.
Tinubu, alongside Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the service chiefs and other dignitaries, was decorated with the remembrance poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry.
The President urged government institutions, private organisations and individuals to support the Legion, which provides care for retired military personnel and widows 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.
“Armed Forces Remembrance Day reminds us of the importance of peace and unity. I call on every Nigerian to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect, tolerance and understanding,” Tinubu said.
He praised the Armed Forces for restoring stability in many communities, noting that “tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and many captives have been freed.”
Tinubu added that maritime security had also improved, with oil theft, piracy and illegal fishing significantly curtailed.
He reiterated his commitment to equipping and motivating the Armed Forces, saying security remains central to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We will continue to improve the welfare of our troops and veterans,” he said, listing enhanced allowances, upgraded barracks, expanded healthcare and modernised pension verification systems as recent reforms.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to see the emblem as a symbol of national gratitude.
“When we wear this emblem, we say to our veterans, Nigeria remembers you.
“When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares,” he said.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, said Remembrance Day honours the bravery of those who paid the supreme price and the dedication of serving troops confronting ongoing security challenges.
He commended Tinubu for his continued support, noting that many communities once ravaged by conflict are witnessing a return to normal life.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 in honour of fallen and living military heroes.