President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to donate all his salaries since assuming office in May 2023 to a newly established welfare fund aimed at supporting members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces and their families.
Tinubu made the announcement in a personal statement on Sunday to mark his 74th birthday, dedicating the milestone to honouring the sacrifices of military personnel.
“On this, my 74th birthday, I celebrate the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces.
“Today, I have directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a special account for a fund dedicated to those who serve, those wounded in the line of duty, and the families of those who have paid the ultimate price.
“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.
“This fund will directly support those who have lost their limbs, and the widows, widowers, and children of those who laid down their lives in service to our dear country,” he said.
The president also called on political leaders, the private sector, and Nigerians at large to support the initiative, emphasising that caring for soldiers and their families is a collective responsibility.
“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.
“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 a duty. And we will fulfil it,” Tinubu added.
Earlier, on December 2, 2025, President Tinubu launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem and appeal fund at the State House in Abuja, donating ₦200 million toward the ₦320 million raised. He also unveiled the “Thank a Soldier” digital platform and introduced a Ministry of Defence programme aimed at deploying retired military personnel to secure ungoverned areas.
Tinubu opted for a low-key celebration of his birthday, citing the current national mood and ongoing economic reforms under his administration, although he has continued to receive congratulatory messages from governors across the country.
What you should know
The initiative by Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflects a broader effort to strengthen welfare support for Nigeria’s military personnel, particularly those injured in service and families of fallen soldiers.
While existing schemes already provide some level of assistance, the proposed fund is expected to serve as an additional support system.
The move also highlights increasing attention on military welfare amid ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, with the government seeking both public and private sector involvement to sustain long-term support for armed forces personnel and their dependents.
