President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal with a donation of N200 million to the Nigerian Legion, reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of serving military personnel, injured officers, veterans, and families of fallen heroes.
The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, announced a N100 million contribution on behalf of lawmakers, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, pledged N20 million.
At the ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, senior legislators, 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 urged government institutions, businesses, and patriotic Nigerians to donate generously to the Legion, noting that the organisation plays a pivotal role in supporting widows, orphans, and retired soldiers.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,’’ the President declared. He called on Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace unity, describing the country’s diversity as a national asset.
The President highlighted major security gains under his administration, noting the surrender of tens of thousands of insurgents, the neutralisation of key terrorist leaders, and the release of many captives. He also reported significant progress in maritime security with reductions in oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing military welfare through improved allowances, upgraded barracks, strengthened healthcare, and modernised pension verification systems leveraging BVN and NIN integration.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to see the emblem as a symbol of solidarity with fallen heroes and their families.
“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, appreciating the President’s commitment to improved military hardware, training, and care for injured service members.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, described Remembrance Day as a solemn recognition of the men and women who have paid the ultimate price for national unity. He noted that improved security has reopened markets, restored schools, and allowed displaced families to rebuild their lives across formerly troubled regions.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is commemorated annually on January 15 to honour fallen soldiers and celebrate living veterans who continue to uphold the nation’s security.
