The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and well-being of members of the Nigerian Legion and their families.
Governor Eno gave the assurance during the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem/Appeal Fund held at the Governor’s Office Annex, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo.
The Governor stated that it was a privilege to gather every January to honor the memories of those who fought gallantly to preserve the territorial integrity of the nation, ensuring the unity of Nigeria with their blood.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Gov. Umo Eno lamented that some of the legioners died, were injured and maimed to ensure that Nigeria remains one united indivisible nation.
He said it was a nice opportunity to gather and reflect on their sacrifices and make contributions towards the welfare of those of them who are still alive as well as remember the families of those who passed on, as this renews faith in the unity of Nigeria and commitment to global peace.
“Beyond the Nigerian Civil War which ravaged this nation between 1967 and 1970, some of the veterans fought and lost their lives during the first and second world wars. We must never forget that people paid the supreme price for the peace we are enjoying today. This is why 15th January every year is reserved to honour them. The launch of the Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem and Appeal Fund is one of the events traditionally held as part of the efforts to honour their sacrifices.”
The State Chief Security Officer who had on arrival inspected the Guard of Honour, maintained that the Emblem launch affords the people the opportunity to make direct financial contributions towards the welfare of those of them who are still alive and the families of deceased veterans.
Reiterating that the primary purpose of government was the security of lives and property and the welfare of citizens, Governor Eno said his administration was irrevocably committed to the mandate and will not shrink in these sacred responsibility.
“We will continue to support our Ex-Service men and their families.There are certain initiatives designed by my administration to benefit our Ex-Service men, other senior citizens, their families and the State at large. One of them is the Senior Citizens Centre. After working for several years and fighting hard to maintain national and global peace, our veterans deserves the kind of world class recreational and medical facilities we are putting in place in that medical corridor, Gov. Eno assured.
In a Remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Inibehe Silas said the day was to pay tribute to our fallen heroes who served the nation passionately and to return their love.
Mrd Silas expressed gratitude to members of the Legion for their unwavering service to the nation and for proudly representing our State in different theaters of war where they served.
“Today is a significant day in the life of our nation. One dedicated to appreciating the patriotism and selfless sacrifices of heroes who laid down their lives in service to humanity during the first and second World Wars. “
The Commissioner said the event will equally afford government and the Nigerian people the opportunity to honour and support the welfare of veterans who are still alive as well as members of their families, and appreciated Gov. Umo Eno for his unwavering commitment to their welfare.
Responding, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Akwa Ibom State, retired Captain Uwemedimo Bassey, said the Armed Forces Remembrances Day was a solemn occasion which reminds us of the sacrifices made by our armed forces to defend our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He described it as a day to reflect on the bravery and dedication of our officers who faced the harsh realities of war and made the ultimate sacrifice.
Captain Bassey who thanked Gov. Eno fervently for his administrations commitment to their welfare, pleaded like Oliver Twist that they and their families be given access to quality healthcare services, employment opportunities, educational support, housing assistance, counselling service.
Other demands made by the Legion Chairman includes, provision of a good office accomodations, provision of an 18 seater bus to ease transportation, monthly subvention for office upkeep amongst others.
