Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s fallen military heroes and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of their widows and dependants.
The Governor spoke on Thursday at the grand finale of the 2026 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration held at the Government Cenotaph, Alagbaka, Akure.
He described the annual nationwide ceremony as the highest form of honour for fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation, while also recognising living veterans and serving military personnel committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that the event was not only about remembrance but also about honour, gratitude and empowerment, particularly for widows of fallen heroes whose resilience and sacrifices continue to inspire society.
According to him, the Ondo State Government is fully aware of the challenges faced by the widows and remains committed to supporting their welfare through sustained resources, empowerment programmes and public recognition.
The Governor disclosed that the Emblem Appeal Fund launched earlier had so far attracted an initial sum of ₦5 million, in addition to his personal donation of one month’s salary and contributions from individuals and organisations at both personal and corporate levels.
As part of the empowerment initiatives, Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that the state government had approved and released ₦50 million for the disbursement of interest-free microcredit loans to 120 widows and dependants of fallen heroes in 2026.
He explained that the zero-interest loan scheme, which has become a regular feature of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in the state, would be sustained regardless of economic conditions. The scheme is designed to support small businesses and help beneficiaries cater for their families.
He added that the loan amount per beneficiary had been increased from ₦200,000 to between ₦450,000 and ₦500,000.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended military and civilian stakeholders for their collaboration in ensuring the success of the 2026 celebration. He particularly praised security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps, for their contributions to safeguarding lives and property in the state.
The Governor noted that Ondo State has been recognised as one of the most peaceful and safest states in the country, assuring that his administration would continue to support security agencies within available resources.
He, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.
In her vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, lauded the Governor for backing his words with action through tangible empowerment programmes for women and vulnerable groups.
She described the financial support extended to widows as significant, noting that it would greatly enhance their livelihoods and economic independence.
Dr. Osamaye reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to honouring fallen heroes and supporting their families, assuring widows of sustained welfare and empowerment initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip; APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly, as well as traditional rulers.
