Ex-Service men in Ebonyi have urged the state and federal government to empower widows of deceased soldiers and provide job for their children as well as the retired officers, who are still active into service.
They made the call on Wednesday during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) celebration in Abakaliki.
AFRD is observed every January 15 to honour fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces in various wars and national assignments.
Speaking at the event the lying of wreath, the state Governor, Francis Nwifuru hailed the nation’s soldiers on peacekeeping and urged them to keep the flag flying.
Nwifuru noted that the state government was committed to partnering with the army on the security of lives and property of citizens.
Lt.- Col. Audu Bako, Commander Officer, 24 Support Engineer Regiment, Nkwoagu Military Cantonment, Abakaliki said the 2025 armed forces day celebration was a welcome development.
“I commend our colleagues, who have paid the supreme price. We are here, today to also celebrate the livings. This is a day to remember the deceased soldiers, get in touch with their family and offer support to them.
“Those, who are still in service should remain professional and patriotic,” Bako advised.
Mr Fidelis Ogodo, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Ebonyi expressed worry over the current economy, stating that improving on their welfare by employing some of their children would go a long way to alleviate their suffering.
“We thank God for a day like this, a day marked to celebrate our heroes. I want the government to continue to see us as a very important segment in the country.
“The government need to make policy to empower the widows of deceased soldiers and our children. Employ some of our members, who are still active back to service.
Our correspondent reports that the soldiers also conducted a free medical outreach for the legionnaire, wives of the deceased officers to commemorate the 2025 AFRD in Ebonyi.
Lying the wreath also include: Mr Moses Odunwa, Sepeaker, Ebonyi House of Assembly; Lt.-Col. Audu Bako, Commander Officer, 24 Support Engineer Regiment, Nkwoagu Military Cantonment, Abakaliki; Chairman of the Nigerian Legion among others.