Former soldiers in Ebonyi have appealed to the state and federal government to improve their welfare and employ their children and some strong young retired soldiers into the service. They made the claim on Saturday during the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) celebration in Abakaliki. .
AFRD is observed every January 15 to honor the fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces in various wars and national assignments.
Fidelis Ogodo, president of the Nigerian Legion in Ebonyi, condemned the current economy, noting that improving their well-being by employing some of their children would go a long way towards alleviating their suffering.
Mr. Ogodo, who thanked God for saving their lives in 2021, pledged on behalf of his members to continue supporting government policies aimed at national development.
“We are happy to be among the living and to be part of the 2022 celebration. God has preserved us. We want the state and federal government to do more for our welfare by employing some of our members, who are still young and strong, in service.
“We need the release of the arrears of the consequent adjustment of the pension of our members. Others have been enjoying the benefit, but we still don’t have ours,” he explained.
Margret Luke-Uduagha, president of the Military Widows Association, said her sons, who graduated from school, had yet to find jobs.
“We need the government to do more, comparing today’s economy to what we used to have. The pension needs to be increased,” said Ms. Luke-Uduagha.
The activities that marked the event included the laying of a wreath by the Governor of Ebonyi, David Umahi, together with the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the State, Francis Nwaifuru, among others. (YAYA)