By Milcah Tanimu
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has announced the state’s commitment to enroll the families of fallen heroes and ex-servicemen in various social investment schemes. The governor made this declaration during the 2024 Nigerian Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Permanent Cenotaph in Minna, the capital of Niger State.
Governor Bago, represented by his Deputy Yakubu Garba, emphasized that the state has a responsibility to cater to the families of fallen heroes and ex-servicemen who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation. He mentioned that these individuals would be enrolled in different categories of social investment programs, taking into account their ages.
The governor affirmed the state’s commitment to preventing these individuals from experiencing poverty, acknowledging the continuous need for the services of ex-servicemen in addressing security challenges in Niger State.
Mamuda Baba Ahmed, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion Niger State Council, expressed appreciation for Governor Bago’s efforts in addressing the plights of ex-servicemen. He expressed optimism that the state government would fulfill its pledges to the legion and called for the engagement of cadets trained by the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires to contribute to addressing insecurity.
The event featured various activities, including wreath laying by the governor and other key participants, a gun salute, the release of pigeons, and a color match out.