Abuja: The Nigerian Army has officially distanced itself from ongoing fundraising and sponsorship solicitations being conducted in the name of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026. In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the Army warned the public to be cautious of fraudsters and not fall victim to such schemes.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Col. Anele highlighted that unscrupulous individuals and criminal syndicates have been circulating fake letters, proposals, and sponsorship requests, falsely claiming to represent the Nigerian Army and seeking financial support for NADCEL 2026. The Nigerian Army has unequivocally dissociated itself from any unauthorized requests for funds, sponsorships, donations, or partnerships.
‘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,’ stated Anele. She emphasized that all legitimate communications regarding the celebration are strictly conveyed through recognized and verifiable Nigerian Army platforms and channels.
Anele urged the public, corporate bodies, financial institutions, and government agencies to exercise caution and verify any requests purportedly made on behalf of the Army. She warned against responding to or engaging with unsolicited financial requests without proper verification, as the Army does not authorize or support any form of fundraising in its name.
The Army spokesperson also issued a strong warning to those impersonating the institution or engaging in fraudulent solicitations, indicating that such individuals would be tracked, arrested, and prosecuted. She encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest military formation, security agency, or law enforcement authority.
Col. Anele noted that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Military Police, and other relevant security agencies, has 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 expressed gratitude for the vigilance, cooperation, and support of Nigerians.