Badaru Launches ‘Thank A Soldier’ App.

Mohammed Badaru.

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has introduced a new digital initiative called “Thank A Soldier,” aimed at linking Nigerians with serving military personnel and the families of fallen heroes.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, Badaru said the initiative forms part of the activities planned for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD).

According to him, the interactive platform — which can be accessed through a QR code — allows citizens to send personalised messages of appreciation and tributes to members of the Armed Forces.

He explained that the 2026 celebration, themed “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” will serve as a national period of reflection and gratitude for the sacrifices of the military in defending Nigeria’s peace and sovereignty.

The minister said the commemoration would also help strengthen the bond between the military and civilians through remembrance events, community service, and acts of national unity.

Badaru highlighted that the major activities for the celebration include the National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Bola Tinubu on November 27, interfaith prayers, humanitarian outreach, a national symposium, and the traditional wreath-laying ceremony scheduled for January 15, 2026.

He noted that this year’s celebration would involve more youth and civil society participation to promote civic engagement and patriotism.

“We are telling our soldiers — and their families — that Nigeria remembers, appreciates, and stands with them,” Badaru stated.

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his consistent support through the Renewed Hope Agenda and pledged that the Defence Ministry would continue to implement reforms to enhance national security and improve troop welfare.

The minister also encouraged Nigerians to wear the remembrance emblem proudly and “honour our past, support our present, and secure our future.”

Providing an update on military achievements, Badaru disclosed that over 13,000 terrorists and criminals have been neutralised, nearly 10,000 hostages rescued, and more than 17,000 suspects apprehended across the country since President Tinubu took office.

He further revealed that more than 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, along with their families, had surrendered to security forces, while ongoing operations continue to weaken terrorist groups and dismantle criminal networks.

Badaru added that joint operations had destroyed more than 1,900 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta, significantly reducing oil theft and maritime crimes through improved naval patrols and aerial surveillance.

He said synergy among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, combined with modern equipment and local defence manufacturing, had boosted the nation’s counterterrorism and counterinsurgency capabilities.

According to him, President Tinubu’s investment in modern military assets — including armoured vehicles, naval vessels, and unmanned aerial systems — had strengthened the country’s ability to confront emerging security threats.

Badaru commended the bravery of Nigerian troops across various theatres, stating that their courage continues to protect the nation’s unity and stability.

“The liberty, peace, and stability we enjoy are secured daily through the courage of our men and women in uniform — those serving, those who have served, and those who paid the supreme price,” he said.