By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Tuesday, launched the emblem appeal fund for the 2025 armed forces remembrance day.

Addressing the gathering at the official launching of the emblem, held at the Cocoa Conference hall, Alagbaka, Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that this emblem stands as a symbol of the State Government’s unwavering gratitude and respect for the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve the country with courage, dedication and sacrifice.

The Governor said “As we gather together to commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of our veterans, we are reminded of the profound debt of gratitude we owe to those who have selflessly defended our country’s values and freedoms. The emblem we unveil today and launch serves as a tangible reminder of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, both past and present.

“Their heroic deeds have given us the peace we enjoy today. One of the high points of this annual event is to raise funds through the sales of the emblems and donations to assist and promote the well-being of the relations of the departed ones and also those still alive but incapacitated.

“The men and women of our armed forces exemplify the highest ideals of service, courage, and patriotism. They have faced danger and hardship with unwavering resolve, always putting the well-being of our country above their own. It is our duty as a country to honour their service, to remember their sacrifices and to support them in every possible way.

“The launch of this emblem is not just a ceremonial act, it is a solemn pledge and commitment to support our veterans in their time of need, to provide them with the respect and recognition they deserve, and to uphold the values for which they have fought so bravely.

“On our part as responsible and responsive government, we shall not shy away from paying attention to the welfare of widows and dependant relatives of our fallen heroes within the limit of our resources. We are quite aware of the untold hardship of wives, children and dependant relatives of the fallen heroes due to the loss of their loved ones and breadwinners and also the challenges being faced by those that are incapacitated as a result of their involvements in the defence of their motherland. Hence our resolve to continue to support them through our various intervention windows. We have thus increased the State donation to the Nigerian Legion, Ondo State Chapter”.

The Governor gave his assurance that the widows of the departed heroes will continue to be considered for empowerment to ensure that they live socially acceptable lives.

Earlier in her welcome address, the State Commisoner for Women Affairs, Deaconess Lola Fagbemi noted that the launch the Emblem Appeal is a unique fundraising activity towards the support of the families of dependents and fallen heroes and the surviving soldiers and officers who are incapacitated and unable to fend for themselves.

“As a mark of this important initiative, let us take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes, veterans, and those still in active service and members of their families. Their unwavering commitment and courage in the face of adversity deserve our deepest gratitude and respect.

According to her, this initiative will provide the vital resources for commemorative activities, educational programs, and support services for the fallen heroes, dependents, veterans, and their families.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that their sacrifices are recognized and their stories are told. Your contributions, no matter how big or small will make a significant difference in the lives of the dependents of our fallen heroes, our veterans, and our loved ones.

“Together, we will foster a culture of remembrance and gratitude, ensuring that those who have served our nation are never forgotten”.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Ondo State, Colonel Olu Apata (Rtd.) noted that the annual event presents an opportunity for Nigerians and friends of Nigerians to honor veterans and families of fallen heroes.

He added that the necessary fundraising will directly contribute to the welfare programs, offering vital services such as health care, education and financial assistance to the veteran families.

Apata called for support from companies and non-governmental organizations operating in Ondo State to support incapacitated veterans, widows, and dependents of the fallen heroes.

In attendance were ; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Members of the State Executive Council, Local Government transition Chairmen, Heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, union leaders, widows of fallen heroes, among other dignitaries.