Birthday present: Tinubu gives up his presidential pay to support the military

President Bola Tinubu has unveiled plans to create a dedicated support fund for Nigeria's Armed Forces, as well as for those wounded in the line of duty and the families of fallen heroes, in a move to honour their courage and sacrifice.

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This initiative was announced on Sunday, coinciding with the commemoration of his 74th birthday, as a way to pay tribute to the nation's military personnel.

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A statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga revealed that President Tinubu has instructed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a special account for the fund, which aims to provide targeted support to injured service members and the families of deceased personnel.

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As a personal commitment, President Tinubu has pledged to donate his entire salary since taking office as seed funding for the initiative, underscoring his determination to support those who have made sacrifices for Nigeria's peace and security.

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The President has called upon State Governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector, and his friends to contribute to the fund, with details of the initiative to be made available soon.

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President Tinubu emphasized that the initiative is driven by a national obligation to care for those who put themselves in harm's way and their families, regardless of existing insurance programmes for Armed Forces members.

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The President further stated that supporting members of the Armed Forces and their families is a duty that must be fulfilled, rather than an act of charity.

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He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to enhancing the welfare of military personnel and ensuring that their service is met with dignity, care, and sustained support.