Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has announced plans to involve members of the Nigerian Legion in safeguarding government assets within the state.
The announcement was made during the launch of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Emblem Appeal Fund in Owerri, where the governor highlighted the continued value of retired veterans in contributing to society.
At the event, held at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Council Chambers, Governor Uzodimma presented the Nigerian Legion with a new 18-seater VIP bus, fulfilling their request for transportation support. In addition, he made undisclosed cash donations aimed at assisting the organization, supporting the families of fallen soldiers, and strengthening peacekeeping efforts across the state.
The governor acknowledged the immeasurable sacrifices of the retired soldiers, commending their contributions to Nigeria’s unity and peace. He encouraged them to remain active in supporting the nation, emphasizing that the peace Nigeria enjoys today is a result of the sacrifices made by past heroes.
Governor Uzodimma also proposed that the state’s emblem fundraising event be aligned with federal government efforts to maximize financial support for the Legion. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborating with the veterans to help safeguard public and private assets and maintain peace across Imo State.
Furthermore, the governor commended various security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police, for their ongoing efforts in combating insurgency and maintaining order in the state. He assured the continued collaboration of the state government with the Nigerian Legion to address security challenges.
He said, “The peace we enjoy today is a result of the supreme sacrifice made by our past heroes. We must reciprocate by supporting those they left behind.”
Hon. Nkechinyere Ugwu, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Vulnerable Groups, expressed her appreciation for the governor and his wife’s continuous support for military widows and the families of fallen heroes. She also encouraged attendees to contribute generously to the appeal fund.
Comrade Alphonsus Anyanwu, President of the Nigerian Legion in Imo State, expressed gratitude for the bus and other forms of support, urging the state government to re-engage veterans in security matters and provide a permanent location for the Legion’s secretariat.
Mrs. Joy Moses, Coordinator of Military Widows in the state, also thanked the governor for his generosity, highlighting the positive impact of his support on the military widows.
The ceremony concluded with the decoration of Governor Uzodimma, his deputy, and other officials with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem. Notable dignitaries in attendance included Senator Osita Izunaso, members of the State Expanded Executive Council, and senior security officials from various agencies.
Through this initiative, the Imo State government seeks to strengthen security efforts and promote peace by actively involving the Nigerian Legion and honoring the sacrifices of past heroes.
