President Bola Tinubu on Sunday in Abuja unveiled a special fund to support fallen and wounded troops as part of activities to mark his 74th birthday.

Mr Tinubu said the fund would cater for members of the Armed Forces injured in service, as well as families of officers who died defending the country.

He stated, “On this my 74th birthday, I celebrate the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces.”

He said he had directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a dedicated account to manage the fund for transparency and effective disbursement.

Mr Tinubu noted, “Today, I have directed the establishment of a special account for a fund dedicated to those who serve and those wounded in the line of duty.”

Mr Tinubu also announced that he would donate his entire salaries since assuming office as seed funding for the initiative.

He said, “As a personal commitment, all my salaries since assuming office will be paid into this account as seed funding.”

He added that the initiative would complement existing insurance and welfare schemes available to members of the armed forces.

“This fund will directly support those who have lost their limbs and families of those who paid the ultimate price,” he said. 

Mr Tinubu stated said beneficiaries would include widows, widowers, and children of fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for national security.

He urged state governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative.

“I call on governors, lawmakers, the private sector and all well-wishers to support this initiative,” he added.

Mr Tinubu noted details of the fund account would be made public soon to enable contributions from individuals and organisations.

He emphasised the need for the nation to honour and support military personnel who risked their lives to ensure peace and stability.

“We must never forget those who stand in harm’s way for our peace, nor the sacrifices borne by their families,” Mr Tinubu said.

Mr Tinubu described the initiative as a moral obligation rather than an act of charity.

“This is not charity. It is duty. And we will fulfil it,” Mr Tinubu added. 

(NAN)