President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the creation of a special welfare fund to support members of Nigeria’s armed forces, including those injured in active service and families of fallen personnel.
The initiative, unveiled on Sunday as part of activities marking the president’s 74th birthday, is aimed at recognising the sacrifices of military personnel and providing sustained support to those affected by service-related challenges.
According to a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu has directed the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a dedicated account for the fund.
In a personal gesture, the president pledged to donate all his salaries since assuming office as seed funding for the initiative, underscoring his commitment to improving the welfare of service members and their families.
The fund is expected to provide targeted assistance to injured personnel, as well as widows, widowers, and children of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Tinubu also called on state governors, members of the National Assembly, private sector stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the fund, describing it as a collective national responsibility.
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He emphasised that supporting the armed forces should not be viewed as charity but as a duty owed to those who risk their lives to protect the country.
“This initiative reflects our obligation to care for those who stand in harm’s way and the families who bear the burden of their sacrifice,” the statement noted.
The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening military welfare and ensuring that the service of personnel is matched with dignity and adequate support.
The announcement comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, placing increased demands on military personnel across various regions.
For many families of fallen soldiers, the initiative offers a measure of hope that their sacrifices will not be overlooked, while also signalling a broader call for national solidarity in supporting those who serve on the frontlines.