The Nigerian Legion has renewed calls for sustained government, corporate, and public support for military veterans and the families of fallen heroes, stressing that remembrance must go beyond annual ceremonies to tangible welfare interventions.
Speaking to Nigeria Info during the Nigerian Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Week, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Lagos State Chapter, Lagos State, DCG Akeem Wolimoh, says the period officially known as the Nigerian Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance, serves a dual purpose.
“It is a period set aside to celebrate our Armed Forces who continue to put in their best to ensure the safety, security and sovereign integrity of Nigeria,”
“It is also a time to remember those who served but are no longer with us, especially those who died while in active service, whom we refer to as our fallen heroes.”
On government support, Wolimoh acknowledged that while no intervention can ever be fully sufficient, the Lagos State Government has demonstrated strong commitment to veterans’ welfare.
“The Lagos State Government has been very responsive.
They provide our office, logistics, running costs and have consistently supported Armed Forces Remembrance activities,” he stated.
Despite these efforts, the Legion says more support is required, particularly in addressing housing challenges faced by veterans.
“What we need to significantly address homelessness among military veterans in Lagos State is no fewer than 1,000 housing units,” Wolimoh revealed.
Wolimoh also appealed to corporate organisations, private individuals and well-meaning Nigerians to complement government efforts.
“If government is doing its part and corporate bodies and individuals also contribute, the impact will be far more meaningful,” he said.
