Nigerian Army Warns Public Against Fraudulent Fundraising for NADCEL 2026

Nigerian Army Warns Public Against Fraudulent Fundraising for NADCEL 2026

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Nigerian Army has alerted the public to the activities of fraudsters allegedly soliciting funds in the name of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, warning that such requests are unauthorized and criminal.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army disclosed that unscrupulous individuals and criminal syndicates have been circulating fake letters, sponsorship proposals and donation requests to individuals, financial institutions, corporate organisations and government agencies, falsely claiming to represent the Nigerian Army.

The Army categorically denied authorising any individual or group to solicit funds on its behalf, stressing that any request for sponsorship, donations, partnerships or financial support not expressly communicated through official Nigerian Army channels should be regarded as fraudulent.

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

The Army urged members of the public, corporate bodies, financial institutions and government agencies to exercise vigilance and refrain from responding to unsolicited financial requests purportedly made on behalf of the service without proper verification.

It further warned that anyone found impersonating the Nigerian Army, forging official documents or engaging in fraudulent solicitation would be tracked down and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The statement noted that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Military Police and other security agencies, had intensified efforts to identify, track and apprehend those behind the fraudulent activities.

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

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens from exploitation, the Nigerian Army expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their vigilance, cooperation and continued support in the fight against criminal activities.