December 02, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday led a major show of support for Nigeria’s military community, announcing a donation of N200 million to the Nigerian Legion at 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 of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, pledged N100 million, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, announced a donation of N20 million, bringing total commitments to N320 million.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, top lawmakers, service chiefs, and other dignitaries were decorated with the remembrance poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving troops, wounded officers, veterans, and families of fallen heroes, urging government institutions, corporate bodies, and citizens to support the Legion.
He said, “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 is a reminder of the call to peace and the importance of unity. I call on every Nigerian to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect, tolerance, and understanding.”
He praised the Armed Forces for their courage and sacrifices, noting substantial gains in security operations nationwide.
According to him, tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, several terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and captives have been rescued from various theatres of operation.
The President also highlighted improved maritime security, with a marked reduction in oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing.
He said the military has received new platforms and advanced capabilities across the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
“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 added that his administration has enhanced troop allowances, upgraded barracks, strengthened healthcare services, expanded Defence Health Maintenance programmes, and modernised pension verification systems.
Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to view the remembrance emblem as a symbol of 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 the Remembrance Day serves as a moment to honour bravery, sacrifice, and national service.
He commended President Tinubu for consistently supporting efforts to improve the welfare of military personnel and their families.
“In many locations once marked by conflict, children have resumed school, markets have reopened, and families are rebuilding with dignity. These restored moments are victories often unsung but deeply felt,” he noted.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is commemorated annually on January 15 to honour Nigeria’s fallen soldiers and celebrate its veterans.
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