Sani Dutsinma
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen, widows of fallen heroes and members of the Nigerian Legion.
The governor made the pledge while receiving officials of the Nigerian Legion, Kebbi State Chapter, led by its Acting Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Matawalle, at the official emblem launch in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
Governor Idris announced a donation of ₦50 million to support members of the Legion, describing the occasion as solemn and significant. He noted that the event provided an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of men and women who laid down their lives to keep Nigeria united, peaceful and secure.
He also disclosed an additional personal donation of ₦10 million made by himself, his family and well-wishers, stressing that the Kebbi State Government would continue to honour its commitments to the Nigerian Legion in order to strengthen its welfare programmes and activities.
The governor directed the Commissioner of Finance, the Accountant-General and the Director of Treasury to ensure the release of the ₦50 million government donation within 24 hours, emphasising that his administration does not make promises without fulfilling them.
Addressing concerns raised by the Legion, Governor Idris spoke on the allocation of land for its members and their participation in the previous Hajj exercise. He assured that the land earlier approved for the Legion would be properly processed and handed over, while challenges that affected Hajj slots last year would not be allowed to recur.
Highlights of the event included donations from government officials led by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, and heads of security agencies, amounting to ₦30 million for the launch of the emblem in commemoration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.
