Ondo State Acting Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday in Akure, inaugurated the emblem appeal for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in the State.
Aiyedatiwa at the inauguration ceremony said the emblem appeal is marked annually to rekindle interests in the plight of the families, dependants and relations of great Nigerian heroes.
He added that it was also to recognise and honour the sacrifices of living and past heroes.
Aiyedatiwa said the 2024 Armed forces remembrance day would re-kindle and honour the memory of officers who had over the years paid the supreme sacrifice in defending the country.
The Acting Governor said, State government is aware of the untold hardship of wives, children, relatives and dependants of fallen heroes as a result of the loss of their loved ones and breadwinners.
Aiyedatiwa also announced the increase in yearly State donation to Nigeria legion from N2.5 million to N3 million this year.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the task of rehabilitating and empowering this category of people should not be left for government alone.
“Non- Governmental Organisations and corporate bodies are implored to join hands with government to make life more meaningful for them, this they must do as part of their corporate social responsibility.
“Kindly permit me, therefore, to appreciate Local Government Councils in the state for fulfilling their responsibilities in respect of the statutory donations to the Legion and other proceeds, especially for the last celebrations.
“I also want to acknowledge the support of individuals, public servants, organisations and government institutions towards this service to humanity, May God reward you abundantly,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa later urged government officials, corporate organisations and Non-Governmental Organisations to donate generously towards the programme.
He assured of govt’s determination not to leave any stone unturned in ensuring that the welfare of the legionnaires is given utmost seriousness.
The State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Colnel Olu Apata (Rtd), thanked Ondo State Government for pro active response to the Armed forces.
Apata stressed that there was need to involve veterans in the security architecture of local government councils for intelligence gathering.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Commissioner for Women Affairs, DR ( Mrs )Julianah Osadahun, appealed to all and sundry to donate generously towards the course.
Osadahun said the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration will kick start with Jumat service on January 10, Christian service on Sunday January 12 and Military parade and laying of wreaths on Saturday 15th January, 2024.
Also present at the event are; Speaker, Ondo state House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, representative of State Chief Judge, Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu who led other members of the State Executive Council and heads of military and para military agencies.
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