All My Salaries Since Assuming Office Should Be Donated For Armed Forces Support Fund — Tinubu

By Akanni Toba

President Bola Tinubu says he has directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to create a special fund for families of the fallen heroes and the wounded members of  the Nigeria armed forces with all his salaries since the inception of his administration.

This is contained in a personally signed letter by Tinubu released on Sunday.

According to the statement, the gesture is part of activities to mark the president’s 74th birthday.

The statement added that honouring the sacrifices of military personnel is of paramount importance to  the Tinubu administration.

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

“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 added that the fund will serve as a direct support mechanism for injured personnel and bereaved families.

“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 added.

“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.”

The president enjoined governors across the federation to support the initiative describing it as “duty” and not “charity”.

“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,” he said.

“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 duty. And we will fulfil it.”