Nigeria's army is battling jihadists in the northeast and bandit militias in the northwest
AFP

The federal government on Tuesday donated N500 million to the Nigerian Legion, with President Bola Tinubu praising the Nigerian Armed Forces for their strong commitment to addressing the country's security challenges.

The secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, announced the donation during the launch of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund at the State House in Abuja.

"No matter the economic theories we propose, without security, peace and development cannot thrive. The challenges are substantial, yet you remain this country's first line of defense. Thank you for your patriotic dedication to Nigeria's unity, stability, and progress," Tinubu said, as per the official X handle.

Minister of Defense Abubakar Badaru thanked Tinubu for his strong support of both current and retired members of the armed forces and their families.

He explained that unveiling the emblem represented hope and highlighted the shared responsibility to support the Armed Forces and their families. Badaru emphasized that Armed Forces Remembrance Day was not just a ceremony, but a call to action.

The minister added that the Appeal Fund launched that day was important for providing essential support to veterans and their families. The money raised will go towards welfare programs including healthcare, education and financial assistance.

National chairman of the Nigerian Legion Retired Major General Abdulmalik Jibril also thanked Tinubu for his ongoing support, calling the donation unprecedented. He said that with this support, their families would not be left in poverty or forced to beg.

Meanwhile, Tinubu emphasized that the well-being of security personnel was a priority for his administration. He honored those who sacrificed their lives for the unity of the country and promised that their contributions would not be forgotten.

He said that the event was to remember the fallen heroes who gave their lives for Nigeria's unity, stability, and progress. Tinubu also expressed a commitment to uphold their values and beliefs and ensure the unity of the nation for future generations.

The president mentioned that it was a great honor to launch the emblem again and reiterated that the welfare of Armed Forces personnel would always be a top priority.