Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military veterans and widows of fallen heroes.
The governor made the pledge on Wednesday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos.
Represented at the event by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the annual remembrance is an opportunity to honour the Armed Forces, remember fallen heroes, pray for them, and encourage serving military personnel.
According to him, the occasion is meant to assure members of the Armed Forces that their sacrifices to the nation will never be forgotten, while also reassuring their families that they will always be remembered and supported.
Speaking on the welfare of widows of fallen heroes, the governor noted that the state government’s support for them is not usually publicised, as it is not culturally appropriate to do so.
He, however, disclosed that the state disbursed ₦75 million last year, ₦50 million the previous year, and ₦100 million this year, alongside other forms of assistance.
In his remarks, the Deputy Commandant General of the Nigerian Legion, DCG Akeem Olawale Wolimoh, acknowledged the support of the Lagos State Government, stating that Governor Sanwo-Olu approved ₦100 million, 500 bags of 25kg rice, two utility vehicles, and some bedroom flats for veterans and widows.
DCG Wolimoh added that, as part of welfare initiatives, the Nigerian Legion organised training programmes and distributed palliatives to beneficiaries.
He disclosed that 378 widows are currently on the Legion’s register, noting that efforts are ongoing to update the list, as some widows may have relocated from Lagos State.
He further revealed plans to organise a special event in February, during which additional palliatives would be distributed to the widows.
However, in separate interviews, both current and former representatives of the widows appealed to the governor for intervention, claiming that they had not received any form of palliative from the state government.
The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths in honour of fallen heroes, followed by the release of pigeons, symbolising peace and unity.
Reporting by Mary Fatile