Zulum approves N10m for ex-servicemen, fallen heroes’ families

The Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has given nod to immediate disbursement of N10 million to retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and families of fallen heroes in the state.

Zulum gave the order on Monday in Maiduguri during his conferment with the ceremonial Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem at the Council Chambers of the Government House in Maiduguri.

Taking his resolve further in ensuring the people feel his impact, the governor has directed the Ministry of Agriculture to partner with its officials to note specific areas the government can support the ex-servicemen’s desire to reactivate a farmland allocated to them in the 1940’s which has not perform very well due to lack of attention.

Meanwhile, the officials had barely requested the allocation of one tractor, the governor, a professor of Irrigation Agriculture, pledged to go far beyond their demands, since it was on agriculture; an area he is haa passion for as an expert.

He ecouraged retired officials of the legion to ensure commitment to agricultural activities after securing the support from government.

The governor also call on the officials to use the funds generated through the ceremonial emblem launch in such a way that the most vulnerable families, especially of fallen heroes, are supported through various means possible.

The chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Borno State, rtd. Col. William Mamza, who decorated the governor in his remarks urged officials and heads of the military, police, DSS and para-military agencies to be committed to the task at hand. He said that traditionally, the launch of the annual emblem is an appeal for mobilization of support for ex-servicemen and families of fallen heroes.

The mandate of the Legion read, “the Nigerian Legion, a statutory body established since 1964, is an association of persons who have served in the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force or any auxiliary force. The legion was established to cater for the welfare of ex-servicemen who have distinguished themselves in local and international wars and for support of families those deceased. The Nigerian legion is a member of International World War Veteran Organization striving for world peace”.