By Aderonke Ojediran
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday, donated the sum of N100 million to the Lagos State Council of the Nigerian Legion, to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
Also donated were four sets of two-bedroom apartments, two utility vehicles, four cows, 500 bags of rice among other food items.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor extended the items to support legionnaires and families of fallen heroes, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to their welfare.
Sanwo-olu announced the donations at the State Executive Council meeting during the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund at Lagos House, Ikeja.
He said that the emblem appeal, ahead of the Jan. 15 commemoration, has become a national tradition and constitutional responsibility to honour men and women who paid the supreme price in defence of the country.
“Our sovereignty as a nation exists because of these brave men and women.
“This emblem appeal is a responsibility we owe to those who laid down their lives for Nigeria and those who returned with life-changing injuries.
“It is customary to accede to the yearly requests of the Nigerian Legion.
“We will continue to support the Lagos State Council in demonstrating our gratitude for the services rendered to the continued existence and unity of Nigeria,” he added.
According to him, the donations represent tangible appreciation for sacrifices that enable Nigerians to live in a free and united country.
“This is our way of saying thank you for the sacrifices that allow all of us to live in peace and freedom,” he said.
Earlier, the Lagos State Commandant of the Nigerian Legion, Mr Akeem Wolimoh, commended the governor and the state government for their sustained support over the years.
Wolimoh said that the Lagos State Chapter of the Legion had benefitted immensely from government interventions, noting that the support has improved the living conditions of members and their families.
“Some dependants of our members have been empowered through skill acquisition programmes of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as empowerment initiatives of other MDAs of the Lagos State Government,” he said.
NAN reports that the event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro.
Also in attendance were: the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Tayo Ayinde, members of the State Executive Council, and the Commander, Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja.
Others are: Air Commodore M. A. Imam; the Commander, 9 Brigade, T. A. Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja, Brig.-Gen. A. O. Owolabi; the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh; among senior officers. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sandra Umeh
