Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe State says his administration will continue to assist retired military personnel who worked tirelessly for the oneness of Nigeria.
At the launching of the 2016 Emblem Appeal Week preparatory to the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration due for January 15, 2017, Governor Gaidam made a state donation of 10 million Naira, as mark of appreciating the invaluable contribution of retired military men who worked for peaceful coexistence at various times in the past.
The Governor made a personal donation of 500,000 Naira and praised the retirees for the immense contribution to their fatherland.
“We must contribute to this noble course to show appreciation for the contributions made by these retired officers and men in the first and the Second World War as well as during the civil war and lately the fight against the Boko Haram insurgency all in defense of truth, justice and liberty.
“They fought the wars to save mankind from oppression and tyranny as well as to preserve the sovereignty and integrity of our great country, Nigeria,” Governor Gaidam says.
The Governor regrets that some were killed at the battle field while some still returned with various degrees of deformity, a situation he said called for the need to help them cater for their group and individual needs.
“In the process, many made supreme sacrifice and never returned from the battle field. As a result of this, they left behind their beloved ones made up of wives, children, and dependents yet others returned disabled in numerous ways.
“I wish to state that the excellent performances of our armed forces, exemplary conduct and professionalism demonstrated by Nigerian soldiers over the years have continued to be commended worldwide by other countries, the United Nations and indeed in the home front,” the Governor stated.
He called on the people of the state and beyond to always contribute in improving the lives of retired security personnel who always remain dogged in service to their fatherland.
“It is imperative for me to indicate that the efforts of the Yobe State government in assisting the war veterans and their families need to be supplemented by the contributions of all citizens of Yobe and indeed Nigeria towards achieving the desired objectives” the Governor said.
Mr Gaidam then directed the state Commissioner of Finance to remit the money to the retirees account immediately.
The chairman of the Nigerian Legions in Yobe State, Captain Ibrahim Gadine, on his part appreciated the annual contributions of the Gaidam-led administration in the improvement of the lives of retirees in the state.
“I want to place it on record that our amiable Governor has been doing a lot for us and only the Almighty will reward him for the tireless support to the legions.”
“We have benefited from owner occupier housing scheme, some of us have gone to holy land courtesy of the magnanimity of the Governor as well as presentation of utility bus. Office among several others. We are indebted to this government,” Captain Gadine (rtd) said.
Prominent personalities contributed in cash at the launching with the aim of improving the living conditions of the retired war veterans.
