By Josephine Oguntoyinbo & Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa today distributed N30 million naira microcredit revolving interest- free loans to 66 widows of the departed heroes in the State.

Aiyedatiwa presented cheques to the beneficiaries of the loan at the Final Parade, laying of wreaths and empowerment for 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration held at Government Cenotaph, Alagbaka Akure.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized the cultural significance of the final parade and laying of wreaths, describing it as the highest form of respect for fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives both domestically and internationally. Acknowledging the debt of gratitude owed to soldiers and officers of the Armed Forces, he stressed the importance of tangible support beyond words, urging charity works and assistance to their dependants and widows.

A moment was dedicated to remembering the late Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON, a political hero and advocate for regional security. A minute of silence was observed in his honor, highlighting his pivotal role in establishing the ‘Amotekun Corps,’ now an integral part of Ondo State and other South-West states.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated the need for financial and material support to the Legionnaire for the welfare of widows and dependants of fallen heroes. He commended the success of the Emblem Appeal fund, raising N3 million, and acknowledged contributions from various individuals, groups, and institutions.

The Micro-Credit Loan Scheme for widows, at zero interest rate, remains a flagship program. This year, N30 million has been allocated to support their businesses. The Governor addressed concerns about loan repayment, pledging continued accessibility and appealing for cooperation to ensure the program’s sustainability.

The Governor announced an expanded role for State Chairmen of Nigeria Legion, now doubling as Commandants of the Nigerian Legion Corps and Commissionaires, focusing on security-related activities. He commended stakeholders for collaborating to make the event a success and reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare, progress, and development of Ondo State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa called for peaceful elections in the upcoming year, urging all stakeholders to conduct themselves honorably to ensure the state’s peace and progress.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development,Dr (Mrs) Adebunmi Osadahun in an interview acknowledged the efforts of the armed forces in promoting peace and unity in the Country.

She affirmed that the loan was given to the beneficiaries based on the recommendations of the Legion and the widows Council .

The Commissioner noted that the State Governor, State executive Council among others donated to the appeal fund to be handed over to the Nigerian Legion.

Also Speaking in an interview,the Chairman Nigerian Legion, Ondo State Council,Col.Olu Apata (Rtd) described the event as an annual one to remember and honour the fallen heroes and the serving ones.

Apata lauded the State Government’s efforts at prioritizing the welfare of its members, and applauded them over the disbursement of loans to wives of the fallen heroes urging the government not to relent .

Widows of the fallen heroes, including Adegbehingbe Victoria, Janet Sunday, said that the annual event enabled Nigerians to remember and honour their late husbands who died defending their fatherland.

They commended the State government for the loan handed them, promising to refund it promptly.

Dignitaries who spoke in separate interviews eulogised the Nigerian Armed Forces who served and are still serving in various peace support operation worldwide.

The event was also attended by Members of the State Executive Council and other political appointees, Speaker of the House of Assembly,Olamide Oladiji who was represented by the Majority leader,Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, Security Agents , Religious and traditional Leaders,widows of the fallen heroes, Accounting Officers, among several other dignitaries.

The event also witnessed prayers for the fallen heroes, their widows, the serving officers, and the country. There was also inspection of guard and released of balloons as a symbol of peace by the Governor, firing of Vollieys and Reveille.

The Governor of Ondo State Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, The Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Major Gen. M. Adamu, Naval commander, Capt. MW Alushi, Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Oladimeji Asabi, The Honourable speaker, Olamide Oladiji, The chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, The state chairman Nigerian legion, Col. Olu Apata, Deji of Akureland, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade. Aladelusi (Odundun II) and Mrs Bola Faleye widow of one of the fallen heroes laid wreaths in honour of the fallen heroes.