President Bola Tinubu has announced the establishment of a special fund to support members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, particularly those injured in active service and families of fallen personnel.
The initiative was unveiled on Sunday as the president marked his 74th birthday, with Tinubu directing the Accountant-General of the Federation to create a dedicated account for the scheme.
In a statement personally signed by him, the president said the fund is designed to provide targeted support for military personnel who have sustained injuries in the line of duty, as well as dependents of those who lost their lives while defending the country.
“On this my 74th birthday, I celebrate the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces,” Tinubu stated, underscoring the significance of their contributions to national security.
He further disclosed that he would commit his personal earnings to the initiative, announcing that all his salaries since assuming office would serve as seed funding for the fund.
“As a personal commitment, all my salaries since assuming office will be paid into this account as seed funding, irrespective of existing insurance and welfare schemes for members of our armed forces,” he said.
Tinubu also called on key stakeholders, including state governors, members of the National Assembly, and private sector leaders, to contribute to the fund in a collective effort to enhance support for military personnel and their families.
“I call on our governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector, my friends and all well-wishers to support this initiative. Details of the account will be made available in due course,” he added.
The president stressed that the sacrifices of Nigeria’s military personnel must not be overlooked, describing the initiative as a moral obligation rather than an act of charity.
“We must never forget those who stand in harm’s way for our peace, nor the sacrifices borne by their families. This is not charity. It is duty. And we will fulfil it,” Tinubu affirmed.
Meanwhile, Tinubu revealed that he chose to observe his 74th birthday in a subdued manner, citing the prevailing national mood and ongoing socio-economic challenges facing the country.
He expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their goodwill messages, prayers, and continued support, noting that such gestures remain a source of encouragement for his administration.
