President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal, announcing a personal donation of 200$ million to the Nigerian Legion and assuring the nation of his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of military personnel, injured officers, and the families of fallen heroes.
The event, held at the Presidential Villa, saw top government officials make significant contributions towards the cause. The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, donated $\text{N}100$ million, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, contributed 20$ million.
According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu used the occasion to direct government institutions, businesses, and public-spirited individuals to donate generously to the Nigerian Legion, which caters to retirees and widows of military personnel.
The President lauded the military for their sacrifices and patriotism, highlighting their active role in securing communities across the nation.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,” President Tinubu stated. He stressed that the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed every January 15th, is a reminder of the importance of peace and unity.
He also urged citizens to embrace tolerance and reject divisive rhetoric, calling the nation’s diversity a “national asset that must be projected and cherished.”
The President detailed the success recorded in the security sector, attributing it to enhanced collaboration among security agencies. He noted that tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and many captives have been freed.
On maritime security, the President noted significant improvements, stating that “oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing have been curtailed.” He reaffirmed his commitment as Commander-in-Chief to equipping and motivating the military, calling security the “central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The President also confirmed efforts to improve troop welfare, including enhanced allowances, upgraded barracks, strengthened healthcare through the expansion of the Defence Health Maintenance Services Limited, and modernised pensions verification via BVN and NIN integration.
The President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the National Assembly leaders, and Service Chiefs were all decorated with the remembrance poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry.
Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, called on Nigerians to view the emblem as a tangible means of supporting the families of fallen heroes, thanking the President for providing improved hardware, training, and better care.
“When we wear this emblem, we say to our veterans, Nigeria remembers you. When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares,” Oluyede remarked.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, celebrated the bravery of those who continue to confront security challenges like terrorism and banditry. He commended President Tinubu for his consistent support.
“In many locations once marked by conflict, children have resumed school, markets have been reopened, and families are rebuilding with dignity… Behind every secured territory, stand men and women whose courage defines our national character,” Pheelangwa added.
