N750m donated as Tinubu unveils Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem

The Federal Government, on Tuesday, donated N500m to the Nigerian Legion.

The National Assembly contributed N200m to the fund while the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector-General of Police collectively committed N50m on behalf of the military and police.

This was as President Bola Tinubu commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their unwavering efforts towards combatting the various security challenges in the country.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, announced the donation at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration Emblem and Appeal Fund Launch at the State House, Abuja.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, revealed this in a statement he signed on Tuesday, titled, “FG donates N500m to the Nigerian Legion as Tinubu commends the armed forces.”

Tinubu said his administration’s reform policies and economic theories would have little impact without the armed forces’ efforts to stabilise the country.

“No matter what economic theory we propagate or postulate, if there is no security, we cannot promote peace and development,” he said.

“I am grateful to all of you on behalf of the country. The challenges are severe, but you are this country’s first line of defence.

“Thank you for your patriotic commitment to Nigerian unity, stability and progress,” he added.

Tinubu, who emphasised that the welfare of the security forces would remain the government’s top priority, also extolled men and women who had paid the supreme price in defence of the country.

He affirmed that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

“We came today to remember our fallen heroes, men and women who have sacrificed their lives for this country’s unity, stability and progress.

“We are committed to their values, principles, beliefs, and the unity and strength of this country as we pass on a banner without stain to the next generation.

“It is a great honour for me to launch the emblem, once again. The welfare of our men and women in the Armed Forces will continue to be our top priority. I want to thank all of you,” the President said.

Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, thanked President Tinubu for his continued support of the welfare of the armed forces, serving retired and fallen heroes, and their relations.

Badaru explained, “Let us remember that unveiling this Emblem serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift our Armed Forces and their families.

“Therefore, you will agree that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is more than just a commemoration; it is a call to action.

“Hence, this Appeal Fund we are launching today to provide essential support to our veterans and their families becomes crucial.”

The minister said funds raised would directly contribute to welfare programmes, offering vital services such as healthcare, education, and financial assistance.

The national chairman of the Nigeria Legion, Maj Gen Abdulmalik Jibril (retd), praised the President for his continued support for the legion and their families, especially for the unprecedented donation.

He added that with the donation, “their families will not be left on the streets and will not be beggars.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, members of the Federal Executive Council, service chiefs, heads of other security and paramilitary agencies, and representatives of the Nigerian Legion were also present at the event.