• Tinubu announces fund for soldiers and families of fallen troops
• President commits his full salary since taking office as seed capital
• Move comes as Nigeria faces ongoing security threats ahead of 2027 elections

Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Sunday, March 29, announced plans to create a support fund for members of the armed forces and the families of soldiers killed in action.

The initiative, unveiled on his 74th birthday, is meant to strengthen support for military personnel who bear the burden of maintaining national security.

“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,” Tinubu said in a statement.

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… pic.twitter.com/jll71CcXJG

— Presidency Nigeria (@NGRPresident) March 29, 2026

In what he described as a personal commitment, the president said he would contribute all the salaries he has received since taking office to serve as the fund’s initial capital. He also called on state governors, lawmakers, private sector actors, and institutional partners to contribute. Details on how the fund will operate are expected to be announced later.

The announcement comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent security challenges. In November 2025, several schools were targeted in coordinated attacks, with more than 300 students abducted in Niger State, according to the United Nations.

Communities in Benue, Plateau, and Kebbi states, in the country’s central and northwestern regions, have also faced repeated attacks. In response, Tinubu declared a state of emergency that same month and ordered the recruitment of 20,000 additional security personnel.

With general elections set for February 2027, security is expected to remain a defining issue in Nigeria’s political debate and a central priority for the government.

Ingrid Haffiny