As Nigeria marks the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, ex-service men in Ebonyi State have urged the state and federal government to empower widows of deceased soldiers and employ their children as well as retired officers, who are still active in service.
They made the call on Wednesday at cemetery in Unity square axis of Abakaliki during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.
AFRD is observed every January 15 to honour fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces in various wars and national assignments.
Laying the wreath at the occasion, 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.
Audu Bako, the Commander Officer, 24 Support Engineer Regiment, Nkwoagu Military Cantonment, Abakaliki eulogised his colleagues who have paid the supreme price.
“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.
Fidelis Ogodo, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Ebonyi, expressed worry over the current economic situation in the country, 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. Governments need to make policy to empower the widows of deceased soldiers and our children. Government should employ some of our members, who are still active back to service,” he pleaded.
