Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has unveiled a new digital initiative, “Thank A Soldier”, aimed at connecting citizens with serving troops and families of fallen heroes.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Badaru said the initiative is part of preparations for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD).
He explained that the interactive platform, which can be accessed via a QR code, allows Nigerians to send personalised messages and tributes to members of the Armed Forces as a gesture of gratitude and solidarity.
The 2026 commemoration, themed “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” will serve as a moment of national reflection and appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel to safeguard peace and stability.
According to the minister, this year’s events will include the National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Bola Tinubu on 27 November, interfaith services, humanitarian activities, a national symposium, and the wreath-laying ceremony on 15 January 2026.
Badaru noted that the celebration would encourage youth and civil society participation, aimed at fostering patriotism and civic engagement.
“We are telling our soldiers—and their families—that Nigeria remembers, appreciates, and stands with them,” he said.
He commended President Tinubu for his continued support under the Renewed Hope Agenda, affirming that the ministry will sustain reforms to improve national security and troop welfare.
The minister urged citizens to wear the remembrance emblem with pride and “honour our past, support our present, and secure our future.”
Highlighting recent military achievements, Badaru revealed that troops had neutralised more than 13,000 terrorists and criminals, rescued nearly 10,000 hostages, and arrested over 17,000 suspects since Tinubu took office.
He added that more than 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters and their families had surrendered, while operations continue to weaken insurgent and criminal groups nationwide.
Joint operations, he said, had dismantled over 1,900 illegal oil refineries in the Niger Delta and curbed maritime crimes through enhanced naval patrols and aerial surveillance.
“Synergy among the Army, Navy, and Air Force—backed by new platforms and local defence production—has strengthened Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity,” he stated.
Badaru praised the courage of troops in all theatres of operation, saying, “The liberty, peace, and stability we enjoy are secured daily through the sacrifice of our men and women in uniform.”
