Nigerian Legion Reaffirms Support For Veterans, Families Of Fallen Heroes

Nigerian Legion has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen and the families of fallen soldiers, stressing that the bond between the military and its veterans remains unbreakable.

This pledge was made during its annual Veterans Day and Happy Hour in Lagos, which featured direct aid distribution. Support included 25 kg bags of rice for at least 500 military widows, about 7,000 educational materials for students, and sponsorship for the schooling of 20 primary pupils, 20 secondary students, and five in government tertiary institutions, with plans to expand coverage.

Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu, from the Army Headquarters Department of Administration (Veteran Affairs Directorate), Brigadier General Edet Effiong described the gathering as a vital opportunity to connect with retirees and families of fallen soldiers.

“The Army cares for those in service and beyond,” he said, emphasising periodic visits to assess needs and tailor assistance under federal mandates.

He added, “Today is a better opportunity to be with retired servicemen and the families of fallen heroes because I’ve seen so many of them here. As you know, the Nigerian Legion is still part and parcel of the Nigerian Armed Forces, comprising retired personnel from the service.

“The Army does not only cater to those in service; we also care for those who are out of service. Knowing what is going on with them will go a long way in helping the army authorities administer veterans’ welfare effectively. The Nigerian Legion was established by law, and so they are also under the federal government.”

Harping on efforts to support families of fallen heroes, Brigadier General Effiong explained, “There are many things the military is doing for them. In terms of education, we take care of the children. For the widows, apart from the military’s efforts, the federal government also organises activities to honour them, provides palliatives, and offers loans to support their vocations. This is to reassure them that losing a loved one or husband is not the end of life.”

Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Lagos State chapter, Deputy Commandant General Akeem Wolimoh, underscored the body’s statutory role in fostering comradeship and supporting needy veterans, widows, and orphans.

“We are here to fulfil the major reason the Legion was established, which is to foster comradeship among military veterans and to promote the welfare of needy veterans and the families of deceased heroes,” he said.