President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday donated ₦200 million to the Nigerian Legion during 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 Benjamin Kalu, contributed ₦100 million, while FCT Minister Nyesom Wike added ₦20 million.
The event, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, service chiefs, and other officials, saw the President and dignitaries decorated with the remembrance poppy by Morenike Grace Henry, Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion.
Tinubu Pledges Continued Military Support
President Tinubu said his administration would prioritise the welfare of active and retired military personnel, including families of fallen heroes. He called on government institutions, private businesses, and Nigerians to contribute to the emblem appeal fund.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,” he said, urging citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace unity.
Highlighting recent security gains, Tinubu noted that “tens of thousands” of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders neutralised, and maritime security improved with reduced piracy, oil theft, and illegal fishing.
Military Leaders Commend Support
Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the emblem as a symbol of solidarity with veterans and their families, thanking the President for improving military hardware, training, and care for the injured.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, praised the administration’s support for troops, veterans, and families of fallen soldiers, noting that restored peace in formerly volatile regions reflected the military’s sacrifices.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed every January 15, honours Nigeria’s fallen soldiers and recognises living veterans. The 2026 emblem launch marks the start of fundraising activities for next year’s commemoration.
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