By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Nigerian Army has disowned ongoing fundraising and sponsorship solicitations being carried out in the name of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026.

Army warned the public against falling victim to fraudsters.

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, gave the warning in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Anele said the Army had become aware of the activities of unscrupulous individuals and criminal syndicates circulating fake letters, proposals and sponsorship requests to individuals, financial institutions, corporate organisations and government agencies.

According to her, the fraudsters falsely claim to represent the Nigerian Army and seek financial support for NADCEL 2026.

She said the Army categorically and unequivocally dissociated itself from any request for funds, sponsorship, donations or partnerships not expressly authorised through official Nigerian Army channels.

“The Nigerian Army categorically and unequivocally states 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.

“For the avoidance of doubt, NADCEL 2026, scheduled to hold from July 1 to July 6 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,” she said.

Anele urged members of the public, corporate bodies, financial institutions and government agencies to exercise caution and vigilance by verifying any request purportedly made on behalf of the Army.

She warned the public not to respond to, engage with or honour unsolicited financial requests made in the name of the Nigerian Army without proper verification.

According to her, the Nigerian Army does not condone, authorise or support any form of fundraising by individuals or groups acting in its name.

The Army spokesperson also issued a strong warning to anyone impersonating the institution, forging official documents or engaging in fraudulent solicitation, saying such persons would be tracked, arrested and prosecuted.

She encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious communications, requests or activities to the nearest military formation, security agency or law enforcement authority.

Anele said the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Military Police and other relevant security agencies, had intensified efforts to identify and bring those involved in the fraudulent activities to justice.

She reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to protecting the public from exploitation and appreciated Nigerians for their vigilance, cooperation and continued support. (NAN)

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