Cross River War Veterans Seek More Attention

Cross River State war veterans have renewed their call for better support for them and their families. They urged both state and federal authorities to do more for them and their families.

The chairman of Nigeria Legion, Cross River State, Comrade Daniel Ojugbo, made the appeal at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day which took place in Calabar yesterday.

The chairman who spoke shortly after laying of wreath at the state cenotaph, used the occasion to reflect on the sacrifices of military personnel. He insisted on care for widows of fallen heroes and support for their members.

He lauded the state government for the various packages put in place for the widows and families of fallen heroes.

In his remarks, the deputy governor, Dr. Peter Odey, described the event as a moment of deep gratitude for the men and women who gave their lives for the nation’s unity and peace.

Odey stated that the peace enjoyed in the state was a direct result of the dedication of the armed forces and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the military.

He stressed that the welfare of widows of fallen heroes remains a priority, adding that the Commissioner for Social Welfare has been instructed to include them in all government programmes.

He averred that engagements with the widows had already taken place ahead of the ceremony.

Odey highlighted ongoing challenges faced by veterans and the families of fallen heroes, including delays in welfare benefits, inadequate medical care for veterans, and economic hardship for widows and their children, some of whom remain unemployed despite having graduated from higher institutions.

He commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for its consistent support to the Nigerian Legion and noted that deliberate efforts are being made to improve their situation.

Mrs Miriam Udoma Orok, Coordinator of the Women’s Youth Widows Association, thanked the Cross River State Government for what she described as a positive change in the lives of widows since Governor Otu took office.

She said members of the association are now able to return home with renewed hope and care for their children, and prayed for continued grace upon the state’s leadership to sustain support for widows and vulnerable families.