Retired military officers in Enugu State have appealed to Governor Peter Mbah to provide support aimed at alleviating their hardships and integrating them into the activities of the state.
The appeal was made by the Chairman of the Enugu State Nigerian Legion of Ex-Military Officers, Dr. Emeka Igwesi, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal Launch held at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
Igwesi said increased government support would significantly improve the welfare and well-being of ex-servicemen, as well as the families of fallen heroes across the state.
“Your Excellency, we are making a passionate appeal to you to assist us in addressing the plights of military retirees,” he said.
He listed key areas of concern to include the donation of operational vehicles to the veterans’ body, full integration of ex-service officers into state activities, and approval of monthly subventions to support their operations, as practised in some other states of the federation.
Other requests included scholarships for indigent children and orphans of fallen and living heroes, empowerment programmes for widows of deceased service personnel, and allocation of pilgrimage slots to military veterans.
Igwesi also called on the governor to intervene to ensure that pledges made to the legion-particularly by government officials-were redeemed.
He further urged the state government to incorporate young retired military officers into Enugu’s security architecture, noting that veterans possess discipline, experience, and capacity to contribute meaningfully to public safety and development.
Describing Armed Forces Remembrance Day as a solemn annual event, Igwesi said it was set aside to honour fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, while also recognising living veterans, especially those wounded, aged, sick, or bedridden.
He added that the occasion also served to boost the morale of men and women still serving in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
In a goodwill message, Governor Mbah commended retired military officers for their sacrifices in protecting Nigeria’s democracy and territorial integrity.
“Your selfless sacrifice secures our democracy, strengthens governance, and protects our collective integrity,” the governor said.
Mbah, who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Ifeanyi Ossai, advised ex-military officers to develop a structured engagement framework through which they could work with the state government for greater impact.
He said an organised and sustainable relationship would enhance collaboration and help address their challenges more effectively.
Earlier, while launching the remembrance emblem, the Acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Dr. Ben Nwoye, advised the legion to provide account details and consistently follow up with individuals and organisations that made pledges. According to him, regular reminders would help ensure pledged donations were redeemed.
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