Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced the approval and release of N50 million for the disbursement of interest-free microcredit loans to widows and dependants of fallen heroes in the state.
The governor made this known on Thursday in Akure during the grand finale of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, which featured a parade, laying of wreaths, and empowerment of widows of fallen heroes.
Aiyedatiwa said the financial support is a recurring part of the annual celebration aimed at improving the welfare of families left behind by those who served the nation. He explained that the loan amount had been raised from N200,000 to between N450,000 and N500,000 per beneficiary to accommodate more widows this year.
He also announced that the Emblem Appeal Fund had been launched with N5 million, alongside his personal donation of one month’s salary, as well as other contributions from individuals and institutions.
The governor appealed to beneficiaries to ensure prompt repayment of the loans to sustain the programme and allow more widows to benefit. “Let us remember not only those who have fallen but also the families and loved ones they left behind, particularly the widows whose resilience and strength inspire us,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa commended the collaboration between military and civilian stakeholders in ensuring the success of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.
“Today’s celebration, which is being simultaneously held across the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, is highly symbolic as it is the highest way of showing our respect as a country to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty,” he said.
The governor noted that the event was not just to honour the dead but also to appreciate living veterans and military personnel for their service. “Today’s event is equally a mark of honour to the living veterans and military personnel that have dedicated their lives to the defence of our territorial integrity. They deserve our praises and appreciation,” he said.
He added that in Ondo State, the remembrance celebration goes beyond honouring the dead to empowering widows of fallen heroes. “For us in Ondo State, this celebration will not be complete without taking responsibility for the welfare of widows of the fallen heroes. This ceremony is, therefore, not just about remembrance, it is also about empowerment,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely information, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Seun Osamaye, appreciated the governor for his support to the Armed Forces and the families of fallen heroes.
