President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the donation of all his salaries since assuming office on May 29, 2023, to establish a dedicated welfare fund for wounded soldiers and families of fallen military personnel.

The President made the declaration on Sunday in Abuja as part of activities marking his 74th birthday, directing the Accountant-General of the Federation to immediately set up a special account for the initiative.

A Fund for Fallen Heroes

Tinubu said the fund is aimed at supporting members of the Armed Forces who sustained life-altering injuries in the line of duty, as well as families who have lost loved ones in service to the nation.

“The Accountant-General should establish an account to fund those men and women who stand in harm’s way, who have lost husbands and wives,” the President stated.

He emphasised that the initiative would operate independently of existing military welfare and insurance schemes, describing it as a “solemn national obligation” to care for those who have sacrificed for Nigeria’s security.

Estimated Value of Donation

Based on available data from the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the President’s basic annual salary is estimated at over ₦14 million. When allowances are included, total annual earnings rise to about ₦30.5 million.

Over a four-year term, the total donation could amount to approximately ₦120 million, which the Presidency described as “seed funding” for the welfare programme.

Call for National Support

Tinubu urged governors, lawmakers, private sector players, and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the fund to ensure its sustainability.

“Let’s put our hands together to donate, especially to that account,” he appealed.

The President also expressed optimism that improved welfare and continued investment in military capacity would strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

Backdrop of Security Challenges

Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security threats, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and other criminal activities across the country. Thousands of military personnel have been killed or injured over the past decade, with many families facing financial hardship despite existing support systems.

Prayers, Reflections at 74

The announcement followed special prayers held at the National Mosque in Abuja, attended by Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, and top government officials.

Tinubu described his birthday as a moment of reflection and gratitude, acknowledging the country’s economic and security challenges while expressing confidence in Nigeria’s resilience.

“We are challenged, but we will overcome. We are a resilient nation,” he said.

He also linked some of the nation’s economic difficulties to global factors, including ongoing geopolitical tensions, but maintained that his administration’s reforms are beginning to yield positive results.

Renewed Commitment

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to national development, Tinubu said ongoing reforms are designed to secure a better future for Nigerians.

“We are determined to confront these challenges, and with continued support, we shall overcome,” he added.

The Presidency noted that further details on the welfare fund would be released in due course.