President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday announced a N200m donation to the Nigerian Legion as part of activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal launch.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of serving military personnel, injured officers and the families of fallen heroes.

The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, donated N100m, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, contributed N20m to the appeal fund.

Tinubu, alongside Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the service chiefs and other dignitaries, was decorated with the remembrance poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry.

The President urged government institutions, private organisations and individuals to support the Legion, which caters to retired military personnel and widows of fallen soldiers.

“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded and care for all who answered the call to serve. Armed Forces Remembrance Day reminds us of the importance of peace and unity. I call on every Nigerian to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect, tolerance and understanding,” Tinubu said.

He praised the military for restoring stability in several communities, noting that “tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised and many captives have been freed.” Tinubu added that maritime security had also improved with significant reductions in oil theft, piracy and illegal fishing.

Reiterating that security remains central to his Renewed Hope Agenda, the President pledged continued investment in modern equipment, improved allowances, upgraded barracks, expanded healthcare and streamlined pension verification systems.

Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to see the emblem as a symbol of national gratitude. “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.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, said Remembrance Day honours the sacrifice of those who paid the supreme price and the dedication of troops still confronting security threats. He commended Tinubu’s support, noting that many communities once ravaged by conflict are gradually returning to normal life.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15 in honour of Nigeria’s fallen and living military heroes.