President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has combined gratitude, reflection, and philanthropy as he marked his 74th birthday with a subdued celebration, while unveiling a special fund to support Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
In a personally signed statement issued yesterday, the President expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for the outpouring of goodwill, prayers, and solidarity on his birthday. He explained that his decision to celebrate quietly was in line with the prevailing national mood and ongoing challenges facing the country.
Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices Nigerians have made amid his administration’s reforms, noting that there are encouraging signs of progress despite global pressures such as the ongoing Middle-East crisis.
According to him, there is “some glittering light at the end of the tunnel,” reinforcing his confidence that the nation will overcome its current difficulties. “I’m filled with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to serve this great nation”, he stated, thanking citizens, as well as his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, and Vice-President Kashim Shettima for their support and kind words.
As part of activities marking his birthday, the President announced the establishment of a special fund dedicated to supporting wounded military personnel and the families of fallen soldiers. He directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to create a dedicated account for the initiative.
Describing the move as a moral obligation rather than charity, Tinubu emphasised the need to honour the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces. “We must never forget those who stand in harm’s way for our peace, nor the sacrifices borne by their families”, he said.
In a significant personal gesture, the President pledged to donate all his salaries since assuming office as seed funding for the initiative, regardless of existing welfare and insurance schemes for military personnel. He also called on state governors, members of the 10th National Assembly, private sector stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the fund, noting that further details would be released in due course.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to national development, Tinubu expressed optimism ahead of his government’s third anniversary, stating that with continued public support, Nigeria would emerge stronger, more prosperous, and resilient.
