President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem appeal fund, securing donations totalling N320 million to support families of fallen soldiers, injured veterans, and troops on the frontlines of Nigeria’s security operations.
The launch, held on Monday at the State House in Abuja, brought together senior government officials, service chiefs, diplomats and members of the Nigeria Legion as activities commence ahead of the annual Remembrance Day on January 15.
Tinubu described the observance as a solemn national obligation, honouring men and women who sacrificed their lives “in the defence of peace, unity and territorial integrity.”
“As a grateful nation, we must continue to honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answer the call to serve,” he said. “Remembrance Day is a reminder of the cost of peace and the enduring importance of national unity.”
The President praised the bravery of troops fighting terrorism, banditry, insurgency and other security threats, calling their service “a source of national pride.” He noted that the Armed Forces had shown “exceptional courage across multiple theatres of operation,” helping to restore stability in several communities.
Tinubu highlighted gains achieved under enhanced inter-agency cooperation, including the surrender of tens of thousands of insurgents, the neutralisation of key terrorist leaders, and the rescue of abducted victims. In the maritime domain, he said improved capabilities had helped reduce oil theft, piracy and illegal fishing.
The President also announced a new Ministry of Defence programme that will deploy retired military personnel to reclaim ungoverned spaces, rebuild local economies and prevent the resurgence of insecurity in affected areas.
“This year marks a new chapter in our remembrance activities,” Tinubu added, unveiling a ‘Thank a Soldier’ digital platform featuring a QR code that allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send appreciation messages to serving troops. The initiative is aimed at boosting youth participation and digital engagement.
He urged citizens to wear the 2026 emblem with pride, describing it as a symbol of sacrifice, honour and national gratitude, while calling on Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and uphold unity.
“As President and Commander-in-Chief, I remain committed to equipping and motivating our military. Security is a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to improved welfare for security personnel, citing better allowances, upgraded barracks, enhanced healthcare, expanded health insurance, and biometric pension verification systems.
At the appeal fund launch, the President donated N200 million, while Senate President Godswill Akpabio contributed N100 million. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, donated N20 million.
Dignitaries present included Vice-President Kashim Shettima; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; House Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu; Information Minister Mohammed Idris; Budget and Planning Minister Abubakar Bagudu; and Senate Defence Committee Chairman Ahmed Lawan.
Also in attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; service chiefs from the Army, Navy and Air Force; heads of intelligence agencies; and leaders of paramilitary organisations.
