President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to donate all his salaries since assuming office in May 2023 to a newly established welfare fund for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and their families.

The President made the announcement in a personal statement on Sunday to mark his 74th birthday, describing the initiative as a commitment to those who serve the nation.

“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 those who have paid the ultimate price,” he said.

Tinubu stated that all his earnings since assuming office would serve as seed funding for the initiative, regardless of existing welfare and insurance schemes.

“As a personal commitment, all my salaries since assuming office will be paid into this account… 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,” he added.

He called on governors, lawmakers, the private sector, and Nigerians to support the fund, stressing that it is a collective national responsibility.

“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 a duty. And we will fulfil it,” Tinubu said.

The President recalled that on December 2, 2025, he launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem and appeal fund at the State House, Abuja, where he donated ₦200 million out of the ₦320 million raised. He also unveiled the “Thank a Soldier” digital platform and announced plans to deploy retired military personnel to secure ungoverned areas.

Tinubu opted for a low-key celebration of his birthday, citing the current national mood and ongoing economic reforms, even as he received goodwill messages from governors across the country.