The Arewa Concerned Citizens Forum (ACCF) has called for the creation of a Nigerian Military Endowment Fund to honor and support the nation’s military personnel for their selfless service.
In a statement signed by the forum’s co-founders, Alhaji Bello Usman and Dr. Victor Bobai, in Kaduna on Tuesday, the initiative was described as a gesture of appreciation for the sacrifices and unwavering commitment of military personnel to safeguarding the country.
The statement highlighted the numerous challenges faced by the Nigerian military, including insurgency, banditry, and other security threats, noting that despite these challenges, military personnel have continued to serve with dedication and bravery.
The forum emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach towards supporting the well-being and effectiveness of military personnel.
The proposed endowment fund would serve as a sustainable funding mechanism to address the social needs and general welfare of Nigerian military personnel.
The ACCF argued that such a fund would enhance morale, improve the welfare of military families, and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among stakeholders.
The forum appealed to Nigerian governors, members of the National Assembly, multinational companies, financial institutions, and the aviation industry to contribute generously to the Nigerian Military Endowment Fund.
The ACCF believes that the fund will be a testament to the nation’s gratitude for the sacrifices made by military personnel.
The statement also urged wealthy entrepreneurs, politicians, and public office holders to ensure that the military, who work tirelessly to keep Nigerians safe, receive adequate support.
The ACCF National Coordinator, Dr. Bobai, was quoted as urging Nigerians to boost troop morale by showing appreciation for their sacrifices.
The forum further stressed the importance of providing emotional support, counseling services, and mental health resources to help soldiers cope with trauma. It also called on stakeholders to volunteer with military organizations, advocate improved military welfare and foster community engagement to promote trust and cooperation between the military and local communities.
The statement concluded with a reminder that a nation’s strength is not only measured by its military might but also by the support and morale of its people.
The ACCF, therefore, called on all Nigerians to stand together in supporting the military and boosting their morale as they work tirelessly to protect and defend the nation.
As of 2019, Nigeria’s military strength was reported to be 223,000 personnel, according to the World Bank database.
Despite a significant loss of at least 384 personnel, this figure was corroborated in February 2023 by former Nigeria’s Minister of Defense, Bashir Magashi, during the 25th edition of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s scorecard series.
Data revealed that of the 384 military personnel killed, 192 were due to Boko Haram and other terrorists, 68 by unknown gunmen, 62 by bandits and 62 by other criminal groups and circumstances.
