The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday paid tribute to Nigeria’s fallen military heroes and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of their widows.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration, held at the Government Cenotaph, Alagbaka, Akure, the Governor emphasised that the nationwide celebration represented the highest form of respect for fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, while also honouring living veterans and serving military personnel dedicated to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He stressed that the ceremony was not merely about remembrance but also about honour and empowerment, particularly for the widows of fallen heroes, whose resilience continues to inspire society.
According to him, the Ondo State Government recognised the challenges faced by these widows and was committed to supporting their welfare through sustained resources, opportunities, and recognition.
The Governor disclosed that the Emblem Appeal Fund, launched earlier, had attracted an initial sum of N5 million, alongside his personal donation of one month’s salary, in addition to contributions from individuals and institutions at both personal and corporate levels.
As part of the empowerment initiative, Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that the state government had approved and released N50 million for the disbursement of interest-free microcredit loans to 120 widows and dependants of fallen heroes in 2026.
He explained that the zero-interest loan scheme, which has become a fixture of the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in the state, would be sustained irrespective of economic conditions, aimed at supporting beneficiaries’ businesses and enabling them to provide for their families. The loan per beneficiary had been increased from N200,000 to between N450,000 and N500,000.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended all relevant stakeholders, both military and civilian, for collaborating to ensure the success of the 2026 celebration.
He particularly thanked security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps, for their notable contributions to safeguarding lives and property in the state.
He noted that Ondo State had been recognised as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and safest states and assured that his administration would continue to provide support to security agencies within available resources.
However, he reminded residents that security should not be left solely to the authorities, urging vigilance and timely reporting of potential threats.
In her vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa, noting that his commitment to empowering women and vulnerable groups has gone beyond mere words.
She lauded the governor for his substantial financial support to widows, observing that it would significantly improve their livelihoods.
Osamaye reaffirmed the government’s commitment to remembering fallen heroes and supporting their families, assuring widows of continued welfare and empowerment.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, represented by his deputy, Rt. Ololade Gbegudu; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; members of the State Executive Council; members of the State House of Assembly; and various traditional rulers.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 15, 2026.