Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has assured of his administration’s continued support for the widows and other dependents of the fallen officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch of Emblem Appeal Fund for the 2021 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, held at the Cocoa Conference Centre of the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka-Akure on Tuesday, Governor Akeredolu said his administration will continue to empower the widows of the departed heroes.
The Governor also urged politicians, particularly members of the House of Assembly, House of Representatives and the Senate to include widows of the departed officers of the armed forces in their empowerment programs.
According to Governor Akeredolu, “The launch of this Emblem Appeal Fund also presents the opportunity to assure that the efforts of those still alive, both retired and serving are recognised, and to encourage them to keep putting in their level best in service to their fatherland
“While it is expected that this will give serving officers a sense of purpose and belonging, it is hoped that it will spur the younger generation to selfless national services and hence, nation-building.“
The Governor further assured that his administration will continue to work with the Nigerian Legion, being the umbrella body of all legionnaires in the State, to improve the welfare of the widows and dependants of the fallen heroes.
He said the efforts of the nations’ hero past are recognized, noting that government shall never be daunted in discharging its responsibility towards them.
“Government agencies under our administration will always be ready to give the necessary support and other required assistance to the legionnaires in the State, while widows of the departed ones will always be considered for relevant government empowerment programmes to alleviate their suffering and to ensure that they live a socially acceptable life
“The task of empowering this category of people cannot be left to government alone. Non-Governmental Organisations, (NGOs), corporate bodies and the general public are enjoined to join hands with the government in this effort
“I, therefore, call upon all Local Governments, NGOs, corporate bodies and good-spirited members of the public to make generous donations and purchase emblems so that a substantial amount of money can be raised for the well-being of the dependants and relations of these departed heroes.“ Governor Akeredolu urged.
He acknowledged the officers and men of the Armed Forces for their support for democracy, good governance, security and peace in Ondo State.
Arakunrin Akeredolu who called on the legionnaires to take the forefront in establishing neighbourhood security thanked them for their contributions to the security of the state and other peace-keeping efforts.
In her welcome address, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Titi Adeyemi, lauded the efforts of the State Governor on his commitment to the development of the legionnaires in the state.
