President Bola Tinubu, alongside top government officials, on Monday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal, raising N320 million to support families of fallen soldiers and veterans across Nigeria. The fundraising event, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marked the beginning of nationwide activities leading up to the Remembrance Day celebration observed every January 15.
The Emblem Appeal Fund is an annual initiative coordinated by the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Legion to provide financial support for widows, orphans, injured soldiers, and retired military personnel. The 2026 launch saw significant contributions from federal agencies, private individuals, and state governments, reflecting an ongoing effort to improve welfare support within the military community.
President Tinubu, after receiving the first emblem, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving and retired military personnel. He commended members of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices in defending the nation against security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent crime.
“Our fallen heroes laid down their lives so that we may live in peace. Their families must never feel abandoned,” Tinubu said, emphasizing that supporting veterans remains a priority for his government.
The President also urged Nigerians to wear the remembrance emblem throughout the season as a sign of solidarity with military families. He called on corporate organisations, philanthropists, and state governors to continue partnering with the federal government to strengthen the nation’s defence institutions.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, announced the total amount raised—N320 million—after donations were made by ministries, departments, agencies, and private supporters. He described the figure as a positive sign of national unity and appreciation for the military’s role in safeguarding the country.
In his remarks, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, noted that the funds will go directly into programmes designed to support widows of fallen soldiers, veterans dealing with post-service challenges, and rehabilitation efforts for injured personnel. He stressed that the nation owes a debt of gratitude to servicemen who continue to operate in high-risk environments.
The Nigerian Legion, represented by its national leadership, expressed appreciation to the President for hosting the launch and improving visibility for the annual appeal. Legion officials raised concerns about the increasing welfare needs of veterans, especially those who served during the Boko Haram insurgency and internal security operations across various states.
They also highlighted progress in ongoing projects, including skills training for retired soldiers, support for elderly veterans, and community-based initiatives that provide income opportunities for widows of the fallen.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually to honour soldiers who died in the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and ongoing counter-insurgency operations. The emblem—typically a small badge featuring a red poppy—serves as a national reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel.
With the successful launch of the 2026 appeal fund, officials say preparations are underway for a series of parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and memorial activities that will take place across the 36 states and the FCT in January.
