The Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has approved the release of N50Million to support widows of Nigeria fallen heroes.
Governor Fubara who disclosed this today during the armed forces remembrance day added that no amount given by the nation can pay for the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives to preserve the country for the living.
Addressing guests, legionnaires and members of the armed forces, who gathered for the occasion of 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Government House Parade Ground, said the money will enable the widows handle pressing issues such as school fees, house rents and support their businesses and as part of his administration’s social welfare.
He said the ceremony is to reflect on and celebrate the bravery of veterans, whose dedication safeguarded the nation’s territorial integrity and preserved its sovereignty.
The governor, who highlighted the past and present security challenges in the country including internal threats from terrorism and armed insurgency, commended the armed forces for standing firm and defending the country.
He observed that despite the ongoing ceremony, many servicemen and women remained on the front lines, courageously combating insurgencies and other threats to security.
He said such ensuing battles came with tremendous cost as thousands of soldiers had paid the supreme price, and many others returned with life-altering injuries
The governor noted that only the brave could forsake the comfort of family and home to protect the lives and freedom of millions adding that without their heroism, the country would not continue to enjoy peace and freedom.
Sir Fubara commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in prioritising the welfare of the Nigerian Armed Forces and pledged his loyalty, support and collaboration.
In a solemn speech Gov. Fubara asserted: “But beyond our words of tribute, this day reminds us of our responsibility towards you and your families, especially the widows, children, and aged parents left behind by those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
He added that, “As a government, we remain committed to the welfare and well-being of the Nigerian armed forces, both serving and retired, and their families”; emphasizing that in Rivers State, his government has fulfilled past promises made to the Nigerian Legion, and assured of his commitment to implement targeted policies and programs in order to improve their living conditions.”
He said, “We will prioritize the inclusion of families of our fallen heroes in our social welfare and investment programmes”, and used the occasion to call on well-meaning citizens and private organizations to extend their support to the families of the veterans and fallen heroes in order to help them overcome the economic challenges they often face.
According to him, “The peace and security of our nation remain a collective responsibility. Let us all work together to support our armed forces and security agencies in overcoming the challenges we face and ensuring that every corner of our country is peaceful and secure.”
Gov. Fubara further called on the citizens to rally around the armed forces and work together to strengthen the national unity, adding that there must be concerted efforts to ensure that every section of the country feels included and valued, fostering a stronger and more cohesive Nigeria.
“I won’t end this address without remembering the widows of the fallen heroes. To that effect I on behalf of the government and the good people of Rivers State pledge the sum of N50million solely for the welfare of the widows.
“This sum shall be redeemed tomorrow to enable them handle pressing issues such as school fees, house rents, and also support their businesses as well as other sundry matters. It is our modest way of appreciating the sacrifices made by their departed ones”.
Gov. Fubara also used the occasion to pay tribute to an expatriate, Mr. Gibson Reuben, Managing Director of Rivers State Cassava Project Limited who lost his life on Monday in an accident at a bridge in Eleme section of the East- West road.
In his remarks, the Acting State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Rivers State chapter, ACC Kuu Promise, thanked Gov. Fubara for sponsoring the occasion and supporting the welfare of veterans in the State describing the governor’s gestures as major lifeline of livelihood and sustenance of their children in schools.
Promise appealed to the governor to assist legionnaires in locating their office within the Isaac Boro Park Military Cenotaph, the memorial ground where the fallen heroes are honoured annually.
