By Augustine Ehikioya
The Nigerian Army (NA) has raised alarm on the activities of unscrupulous individuals and criminal syndicates fraudulently soliciting funds under the guise of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026.
It disclosed that the impostors have been circulating fake letters, proposals and sponsorship requests to individuals, financial institutions, corporate organizations and government agencies, falsely claiming to represent the Nigerian Army and seeking financial support for NADCEL 2026.
The Nigerian Army, according to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, which was made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), categorically and unequivocally stated that “any such request for funds, sponsorship, donations or partnerships that is not expressly authorised through official Nigerian Army channels is fraudulent and should be treated as a criminal act.”
It added “For the avoidance of doubt, NADCEL 2026, scheduled to hold from 1 to 6 July 2026 in commemoration of the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army, is an official event. All legitimate communications regarding the celebration are strictly conveyed through recognised and verifiable Nigerian Army platforms and channels.
“The general public, corporate bodies, financial institutions and government agencies are strongly warned to exercise extreme caution and vigilance. Please do not respond to, engage with or honour any unsolicited financial request made in the name of the Nigerian Army without proper verification.”
The Nigerian Army, the statement said, does not condone, authorise or support any form of fundraising by individuals or groups acting in its name.
“Furthermore, the Nigerian Army issues a firm and unequivocal warning that anyone found impersonating the institution, forging official documents, or engaging in fraudulent solicitation will be relentlessly pursued, apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“Members of the public are hereby encouraged to promptly report any suspicious communication, request or activity to the nearest military formation, security agency or law enforcement authority.
“The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Military Police and other relevant security agencies, has intensified efforts to identify, track and bring to justice all those involved in these criminal acts.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the public from exploitation and deeply appreciates the vigilance, cooperation and continued support of well-meaning Nigerians,” it concluded.
