President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the creation of a special fund to support members of the Armed Forces, including wounded personnel and the families of fallen soldiers, as he marked his 74th birthday, a move he described as a duty to honour the sacrifices of military personnel who risk their lives for the peace and security of the nation.
The President disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, explaining that he had directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a dedicated account for the initiative, which will serve as a support system for those injured in the line of duty and the dependents of those who died while serving the country.
In the statement marking his birthday, the President paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces and acknowledged their sacrifices, stating, “On this my 74th birthday, I celebrate the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces.” He explained that the fund is specifically designed to cater to the welfare of military personnel who sustain injuries while defending the country, as well as the families of soldiers who lost their lives in active service.
Emphasising the importance of institutional support for the military community, the President said, “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.”
The President also made a personal commitment to the initiative, pledging to contribute his personal earnings since assuming office as seed funding for the fund, regardless of existing insurance and welfare schemes already available to members of the Armed Forces.
According to him, this gesture is intended to demonstrate leadership commitment and encourage other stakeholders to support the initiative. “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.
The President further called on governors, members of the National Assembly, private sector players, and other well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative in order to ensure that it succeeds and provides the intended support to 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,” the President added.
President Tinubu stressed that the initiative is not an act of charity but a responsibility owed to those who risk their lives to protect the country, noting that the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families must always be recognised and appreciated.
He said, “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.”
The President’s message highlighted the need for the nation to continually support its armed forces not only in times of conflict but also through structured welfare support for injured personnel and bereaved families.
It was also reported that the President resolved to mark his 74th birthday with a low-key observance, citing the prevailing national mood and ongoing challenges facing the country as reasons for keeping the celebration subdued. In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, the President thanked Nigerians for their goodwill messages, prayers, and support, explaining that the show of solidarity from citizens across the country continues to strengthen his administration and encourage him to remain committed to national service.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support and understanding, noting that the country is going through a challenging period that requires reflection, responsibility, and collective effort from leaders and citizens alike.