By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondents
THE FEDERAL Government officials and lawmakers collectively pledged N320million to the Nigerian Legion at the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal at the Presidential Villa.
The contributions, officials stated, are intended to provide support for active military personnel, injured officers, and the families of those who fell in service to the nation.
President Bola Tinubu donated N200million to the legion, pledging continued attention to the welfare of servicemen and women, their dependents, and veterans.
The President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu contributed N100million on behalf of the National Assembly, respectively.
Also, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, donated N20million.
The ceremony included the decoration of the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President of the Senate, the Deputy Speaker, and the service chiefs with the remembrance poppy by Morenike Grace Henry, Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion.
The emblem also symbolises recognition and support for those who have served in the nation’s armed forces.
President Tinubu directed government institutions, businesses, and private individuals to contribute generously to the legion.
He described the association as catering to retirees and the widows of fallen military personnel.
The President acknowledged the sacrifices of the military in maintaining national unity and peace.
“Our Armed Forces have demonstrated exceptional courage across various theatres of operations. Their efforts have restored normalcy to many communities and strengthened national stability,” he said.
He highlighted successes in counter-insurgency operations, noting that tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and captives freed.
Maritime security has improved, with oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing curtailed.
He stated that the administration has provided new platforms and advanced capabilities to the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
President Tinubu emphasised that security remains central to the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He called on businesses and institutions nationwide to honour military personnel by attending remembrance events and extending appreciation, noting the practice mirrors international standards.
The President detailed improvements in military welfare, including enhanced allowances, upgraded barracks, strengthened healthcare, expanded Defence Health Maintenance Services Limited, and modernised pension verifications through BVN and NIN integration.
Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, said the emblem appeal allows Nigerians to express support for fallen heroes and their families. He thanked the President for providing improved hardware, training, and care for the injured and families of deceased service personnel.
“When we wear this emblem, we say to our veterans, Nigeria remembers you. When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares. When we stand together today, we declare that Nigeria will never abandon those who serve in her name,” Oluyede said.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, described Remembrance Day as an occasion to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of men and women who gave their lives in defence of Nigeria.
He noted that the day also honours veterans and serving troops confronting terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges.
Pheelangwa also commended the President for consistent support for military personnel, the injured, and families of fallen heroes.
He said restored schools, reopened markets, and rebuilt homes in conflict-affected areas represent victories made possible by security operations.
“Behind every secured territory stand men and women whose courage defines our national character. Some continue to serve with visible and invisible scars, others paid the supreme price, and they now live in our collective memory. Today, we honour their loyalty, bravery, and devotion,” Pheelangwa added.
President Tinubu described Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on 15 January, as a time to honour the fallen and recognise living veterans.
He called on Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect, tolerance, and understanding, describing diversity as a national asset.
“The Armed Forces have restored normalcy in many communities, ensuring that peace and patriotism prevail. As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,” the President said.
The launch of the emblem appeal signals a coordinated effort between the federal government, legislature, and military leadership to support veterans and families affected by conflict.
Contributions from officials and institutions underscore a nationwide commitment to recognising the sacrifices of Nigeria’s armed forces.
During the ceremony, officials reiterated the importance of public participation in supporting the legion.
The appeal will provide resources for retirees, widows, and families of service members who lost their lives in the line of duty.
President Tinubu further reaffirmed that the government will continue to improve the welfare of troops and veterans.
He cited ongoing projects to enhance housing, healthcare, and pension systems, while emphasising collaboration among security agencies to achieve national stability.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede and Mr Pheelangwa highlighted the emblem’s role as a visible reminder of national gratitude and solidarity with the armed forces.
Council and military leaders described the appeal as a mechanism for sustained support and encouragement to those who served.
They also said the event reflects Nigeria’s commitment to honouring its military and sustaining peace, with contributions directed to tangible programmes for service personnel and their families.
