By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the creation of a dedicated welfare fund to support members of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, including personnel wounded in active service and the families of fallen soldiers.
The initiative, unveiled on Sunday as part of activities marking the President’s 74th birthday, is aimed at recognising and supporting the sacrifices of military personnel who serve the country.
According to a State House press release signed by Bayo Onanuga, the President has directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a special account for the fund. The scheme is expected to provide targeted assistance to injured service members, as well as widows, widowers, and children of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
In a personal show of commitment, Tinubu pledged to donate all his salaries since assuming office as seed funding for the initiative. The move, he said, underscores his determination to ensure that the sacrifices made by military personnel are not overlooked.
The President also called on state governors, members of the National Assembly, private sector stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the fund. He noted that further details on the structure and operation of the initiative would be made public in due course.
Tinubu stressed that the welfare of members of the Armed Forces and their families is a national responsibility, not an act of charity. He added that the initiative complements existing support systems, including insurance programmes available to military personnel.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the President said efforts would continue to ensure that the service and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military are met with dignity, care, and sustained support.