THIS DAWN — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday officially launched the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
The event marked the beginning of nationwide activities to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes and reaffirm the country’s commitment to the welfare of its military veterans.
The ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, brought together the service chiefs, top government officials, and senior military officers.
The emblem launch is a symbolic annual tradition ahead of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
It is observed every January 15 to commemorate soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.
It also highlights ongoing efforts to support families of the fallen, injured servicemen, and retired veterans.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu made a personal donation of N200 million to the Nigerian Legion.
Tinubu pledged that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of active-duty officers, wounded personnel, and dependants of those killed in action.
He emphasised that national security rests on the dedication of the armed forces, and the country must show gratitude in tangible ways.
Support for welfare of veterans
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, also announced a joint National Assembly donation of N100 million to the Legion.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, added another N20 million on behalf of the FCT Administration.
Collectively, the event generated N320 million in immediate pledges for the Nigerian Legion.
The funds are expected to support veteran welfare programmes, rehabilitation, healthcare services, and skills development initiatives.
At the ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, decorated President Tinubu with the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
The Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry, joined in the symbolic presentation.
Speaking after his decoration, Tinubu praised the armed forces for their resilience amid the country’s ongoing security challenges.
He reaffirmed the administration’s determination to build a stronger, better-equipped military while ensuring that no family of a fallen patriot is left unsupported.
The emblem launch signals the start of memorial activities across the federation.
The activities includes parades, memorial services, and fundraising efforts, culminating in the national ceremony on January 15, 2026.
