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 the Nigerian Armed Forces and their families.
Tinubu made the announcement in a statement he personally issued on Sunday to mark his 74th birthday.
“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,” he said.
The president explained that the fund would directly support injured personnel as well as families of fallen soldiers, including widows, widowers and children.
“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 added.
Tinubu also called on governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector and other Nigerians to support the initiative, stressing that caring for soldiers and their families is a national 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,” the president stated.
The development follows Tinubu’s earlier support for military welfare initiatives. On December 2, 2025, he launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem and appeal fund at the State House, Abuja, where he donated ₦200 million out of the ₦320 million raised.
The president also unveiled the “Thank a Soldier” digital platform and announced 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 prevailing national mood and ongoing economic reforms, while receiving goodwill messages from governors across the country.
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