…Unveils “Thank A Soldier” Digital Platform, Veterans Welfare Reforms and RUSEB-P Economic Initiative
…Minister Celebrates Military’s Heroism, Notes Over 13,000 Terrorists Neutralized, 17,000 Arrested, and 10,000 Hostages Rescued
By Nkechi Eze
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has officially flagged off activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), describing it as one of Nigeria’s most sacred national traditions, a period of deep reflection, profound gratitude, and renewed commitment to the ideals of service, sacrifice, and unity that define the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Speaking at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja, during a press briefing to formally commence the celebration, the Minister said the 2026 theme, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” powerfully encapsulates the spirit of heroism and patriotism that guides the military. He emphasized that the peace and liberty Nigerians enjoy daily are secured through the unrelenting courage and sacrifices of men and women in uniform, those serving, those who have served, and those who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
Badaru described the annual event not merely as a ceremonial tradition but as a solemn national pledge of remembrance and gratitude. “It honours the unwavering sacrifices of our soldiers, sailors, and airmen who have steadfastly defended the unity and territorial integrity of Nigeria,” he stated. He noted that the Armed Forces have also continued to distinguish themselves in global peacekeeping, humanitarian, and nation-building missions under the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Acknowledging the prevailing security challenges confronting the country, the Minister said it was important to also celebrate the remarkable achievements recorded by the Armed Forces in restoring stability, protecting lives, and strengthening the bond between the military and citizens. He reaffirmed that under the steadfast leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Ministry of Defence had achieved significant operational milestones through enhanced synergy among the Services and other security agencies.
“Within the tenure of this administration, our troops have neutralized over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arrested more than 17,000, and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages. Over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered,” Badaru revealed. He explained that these coordinated operations led to the dismantling of terrorist enclaves, the neutralization of notorious bandit leaders, and the restoration of peace to hundreds of communities. He added that in the South-South, more than 1,900 illegal refining sites were destroyed, reducing crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
He, however, acknowledged that remnants of criminal elements continue to pose threats, noting that the President has directed the Armed Forces to sustain and intensify ongoing operations until all threats are eliminated. He stressed the need for a whole-of-society approach, urging collaboration among government, civil society, traditional institutions, academia, and the private sector in the fight against insecurity.
Highlighting major reforms, the Minister described the signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023 as a milestone in indigenous defence production, positioning Nigeria as an emerging hub for defence technology in Africa. He noted that alongside the procurement of new Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and naval vessels, this modernization drive enhances operational readiness while reducing dependence on imports.
According to him, “the ultimate strength of any military resides in its personnel, not just its platforms.” He said the Ministry’s “Soldier First” initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to troop welfare, with measures including an upward review of the Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) and modernization of barracks facilities. Other key welfare advances include the establishment of the Invictus Care Centre for wounded personnel, the upgrade of military hospitals, payment of ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits, and the introduction of the Debarment Allowance to uphold veterans’ dignity and prevent misuse of their skills against national interests.
The Minister further announced the creation of a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre, set to be launched as part of the 2026 AFCRD activities, to enhance service delivery and response time to veterans’ welfare concerns. In addition, he revealed plans to review the Nigerian Legion Act to establish the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN), thereby strengthening the legal framework for veterans’ benefits and reintegration programmes.
In a significant gesture of inclusion and national reconciliation, Badaru disclosed that the Ministry had successfully enrolled 2,141 Civil War veterans who fought on the Nigerian side but retired before qualifying for pension, ensuring that all sacrifices are duly recognized. He also highlighted the role of Defence Health Maintenance Limited (DHML), which now provides comprehensive healthcare for over 400,000 enrollees, including 205,000 veterans and their families across all states.
Looking ahead, the Minister unveiled a new initiative titled “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P),” designed to engage retired but able veterans in restoring security and promoting economic revitalization in previously insurgent-occupied areas. “By engaging veterans in farming, mining, and local security, RUSEB-P will prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revive local economies, and reinforce national security and cohesion,” he explained.
In a forward-looking innovation, Badaru announced the launch of the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code platform, which will allow Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of appreciation to serving troops and tributes to fallen heroes. He said the digital initiative aligns with the Ministry’s drive to modernize engagement and deepen youth inclusion through technology.
Outlining the schedule of events for the 2026 AFCRD, the Minister disclosed that the National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Tinubu will hold on Wednesday, 27 November 2025, followed by a series of activities in January 2026, including the Special Jumaat and Interdenominational Services, Humanitarian Outreach and Family Day, National Symposium on “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development”, Gala and Fundraising Dinner, Medical Outreach, and finally, the National Wreath-Laying Ceremony on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the National Arcade, Abuja, and simultaneously across all states.
Badaru called on all Nigerians to wear the Remembrance Emblem with pride, support the families of fallen heroes, and uphold the spirit of sacrifice that defines the nation’s Armed Forces. He also urged the media to give wide and impactful coverage to this year’s commemoration to inspire national unity and pride.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “Together, let us honour our past, support our present, and secure our future, reaffirming our commitment to a stronger, safer, and more united Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
