Army Raises Alarm Over Fake NADCEL 2026 Fundraising Scheme
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 individuals and organisations to disregard any unauthorised requests for financial support linked to the event.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army said criminal syndicates and unscrupulous individuals have been circulating fake letters, proposals and sponsorship requests to individuals, financial institutions, corporate organisations and government agencies, falsely claiming to represent the military.
The Army stressed that any 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.
According to the statement, NADCEL 2026 is scheduled to hold from July 1 to July 6, 2026, as part of activities marking the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army. It noted that all legitimate communications relating to the celebration are disseminated exclusively through recognised and verifiable Army platforms.
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The military therefore urged members of the public, corporate bodies, financial institutions and government agencies to exercise caution and verify any request purportedly made on behalf of the Nigerian Army before taking action.
“Do not respond to, engage with, or honour any unsolicited financial request made in the name of the Nigerian Army without proper verification,” the statement warned.
The Army reiterated that it does not authorise or support any form of fundraising by individuals or groups acting in its name.
It further warned that anyone found impersonating the institution, forging official documents or engaging in fraudulent solicitation would be tracked, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The statement encouraged the public to report suspicious communications or requests to the nearest military formation, security agency or law enforcement authority.
Colonel Anele disclosed that the Nigerian Army, working in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, the Military Police and other relevant security agencies, has intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those behind the fraudulent activities.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from exploitation and expressed appreciation for the vigilance, cooperation and continued support of Nigerians in combating criminal activities.
By PRNigeria
