By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke on Thursday said the stability of the nation rests on the gallantry, patriotism and sacrifice of the security and military services.
Adeleke hinted that the Service personnel of the Armed Forces in particular are in many volatile sectors of the society, confronting and curtailing open and subtle threats to the territorial integrity of the country, hence they should be applauded for the service they render to their fatherland.
The Governor spoke during the launching of the Emblem for the Year 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day held in Osogbo, the State capital.
He said “Today (Thursday) is another significant period to mark and remember the unquantifiable contributions of members of the Nigeria Armed Forces to the peace and stability of our great country, Nigeria. We are gathered here as in other capitals across the country to place our debt of gratitude on records to our fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice.
“Many offered their precious lives. We must therefore continue to acknowledge the contributions of the Armed Forces to the survival of the nation.
“I reassure the military service of the commitment of our government to expand the present level of partnership. Our administration has a security sector reform which places welfare of service personnel at the centre stage.
“I recommit to the well being of our service personnel. Our veterans and their families will continue to receive our support in recognition of their service to the fatherland.”
He however, launched the appeal fund for the 2023 Emblem for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day with a sum of N5 million Naira.
In his address, the Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Osun State Chapter, Comrade Oladipo Abioye Peter urged the State Governor to see to their long standing requests on some vital issues of importance to the advancement of the Nigerian Legion in the State.
Some of their requests according to the Nigerian Legion Chairman include; “Approval of Monthly Subvention to State Headquarters and Area Offices of Nigerian Legion in the State.
“Issuance of mandatory letter of support and full participation by Local Governments and LCDA’s in the State during the event of annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration and as at when necessary.
“Provision of Official Vehicle, to the State Headquarters to ease our leginic movement to National Seminars, Retreats, Meeting etc and also to inter State’s assignments.
“Permit me to add that, the afore-mentioned demands are been enjoyed by our counterparts in South-West in particular, States for long and in other States of the Federation and that we are always at the mercy of our neighbouring States, Oyo State in particular while travelling to National call,” he said.