Major-General AbdulMalik Jibril urges govt support for 2024 armed forces remembrance day
The Nigeria Legion, a vital organization dedicated to the welfare of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, is pushing for its inclusion in the annual budgetary allocations of the Federal Government. Maj. -Gen. AbdulMalik Jibril, the National Chairman of the organization, emphasized this plea during a news conference in Abuja, marking one of the activities planned to commemorate the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed every January 15.
Jibril stressed the significance of the appeal, citing the absence of a take-off grant for the organization since its establishment in 1964. He asserted that the inclusion of the legion in the federal budget would empower the organization to conduct various activities and fulfill its responsibilities more efficiently.
He particularly highlighted the importance of such inclusion in enabling the Nigeria Legion to provide support to the families left behind by fallen heroes. Jibril called on Nigerians to remember and appreciate the sacrifices made by the Nigerian Army in safeguarding the nation, asserting that it is the collective duty of the citizens to reciprocate and support the families of the fallen heroes.
Nigerians urged to acknowledge Nigerian Army’s sacrifices
In his address, Jibril underscored the critical role played by the Nigerian Army in maintaining the safety and security of the nation. He called on Nigerians not to forget the dedicated efforts of the military, emphasizing the sacrifices made by the Nigerian Army for the well-being of the citizens.
“Nigerians must not forget the efforts of the Nigerian Army in keeping Nigerians safe, and for sleeping with their two eyes; it is our duty as Nigerians to reciprocate this gesture and maintain the family of the fallen heroes left behind,” stated Jibril.
He further emphasized that the responsibility of protecting the families of fallen heroes rests on the shoulders of the Nigeria Legion, making additional funding from the Federal Government crucial for fulfilling this duty.
Historical lack of funding and current initiatives
Highlighting the historical context, Jibril lamented the absence of a take-off grant for the Nigeria Legion since its establishment. He drew attention to the Act that established the organization, which mandates the Federal Government to provide funding. However, he noted with concern that this provision has not been implemented, hindering the optimal functioning of the Nigeria Legion.
“As the current National Chairman, I am making efforts to see that the provision of the Act, Section 11, which empowers the Federal Government to credit the account of the Nigerian Legion, is made to work,” Jibril stated. He emphasized that the organization is yet to receive the necessary take-off grant, a standard practice for every government establishment.
“We need the funding required under this Act,” he stressed, highlighting the importance of financial support to ease the organization’s activities and ensure it can fulfill its mission effectively.
Call for govt funding and recognition
The appeal from the National Chairman of the Nigeria Legion is a call for the Federal Government to fulfill its obligations as outlined in the Act establishing the organization. The funds, if allocated, would not only address the historical lack of a take-off grant but also contribute to supporting the families of fallen heroes and enabling the Nigeria Legion to carry out its responsibilities seamlessly.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces. As the nation prepares to honor its fallen heroes, the call for inclusion in the federal budget reinforces the need for sustained support and recognition for those who have given their lives in service to the country.
Public support and national duty
The plea from the Nigeria Legion extends beyond government corridors, calling on the collective responsibility of Nigerians to acknowledge and support the families left behind by fallen heroes. As citizens reflect on the contributions of the Nigerian Army, there is an implicit call for unity in recognizing and honoring the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces.
The success of the Nigeria Legion’s mission hinges on the collaborative efforts of the government, the public, and the organization itself. The call for inclusion in the federal budget is a step towards ensuring that the welfare of fallen heroes’ families remains a national priority.
A unified call for support and recognition
As the Nigeria Legion advocates for its inclusion in the Federal Government’s budget, the nation witnesses a unified call for support and recognition for the welfare of fallen heroes and their families. Major-General AbdulMalik Jibril’s appeal reflects the organization’s commitment to fulfilling its mission and underscores the urgency of addressing historical funding gaps.
The success of this plea will not only impact the Nigeria Legion but will also stand as a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to honoring its fallen heroes and supporting the families they left behind. As the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day approaches, the call for inclusion in the federal budget amplifies the collective duty to remember, appreciate, and provide for those who have sacrificed for the nation.
