By AISHA NANA, Bauchi –
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has launched the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Emblem Appeal Week with 10 million naira donation of the state government, political appointees and other critical stakeholders.
Speaking on Thursday at the formal launching of the activities in the state held at the Council Chambers, Government House, Bauchi, the Governor pleaded with other Nigerians to also donate generously so as to contribute towards improving the welfare of members of the Nigerian Legion.
He noted that, legionnaires are Nigerians who served the nation in order to protect and preserve its territorial integrity, as well as its survival as a single indivisible entity through their sacrifices during the world wars, the Nigerian Civil War and other wars, hence the need for all to appreciate their sacrifices.
Governor Bala Mohammed said on its part, the State Government has been making effort to ensure the comfort of the Legionnaires and their families by engaging them in gainful employment in Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies in addition to other poverty alleviation schemes.
“I am pleased to inform you that the State Government has redeemed all the fanancial pledges made during the launching of the Emblem Appeal Week last year. I want to assure the Legionnaires that Government will continue to assist them in order to provide succour to them.
“The Emblem Appeal Week and the laying of the Wreath is observed annually to reflect on the development of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the political development of the country. People have forgotten the great sacrifices of these men whose efforts have made it possible for us to enjoy our lives today.
“I wish to appeal to the general public as well as corporate organizations to put the Legionnaires in their hearts and come to their aid. It is not enough to give contribution once a year during such ceremonies, we should develop interest in their day to day activities and help them in whatever form we can. It should be our collective responsibility to cater for their welfare and that of their off-springs.”
The Governor used the medium to appeal to the Inspector General of Police as a matter of importance consider the introduction of the Annual Police Remembrance Day in order to serve as a flatform for addressing the plights of families of retired police officers.
In his remarks, the State chairman of the Nigeria Legion, Warrant Officer Idris Danjuma Ningi, expressed gratitude to Governor Bala Mohammed for providing the chapter with a befitting office accommodation in addition to other support for the welfare and well-being of the members.
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