Military widows decry neglect, seek Lagos gov’s support

A group known as “Wives of Fallen Heroes in Lagos State” has voiced their concerns about being neglected by the state government.

The group’s representative, Oluwaseyi Iliya, raised the issue during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island, on Wednesday.

Iliya stated that they have not benefited from the Lagos State government’s support, despite the yearly celebration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

She said, “Since we began celebrating Armed Forces Remembrance Day, we have not received any direct assistance from the Lagos State government. The only attempt was in 2024 when provision was made for only 10 widows. Since then, we have heard nothing but empty promises.

“Some of the widows received foodstuffs, camp gas, and grinding engines, but after that, it has been nothing but unfulfilled promises.
Military widows are suffering, and if the armed forces have abandoned us, we don’t expect the state government to do the same.”

Iliya revealed that efforts to meet with the state government had been unsuccessful.

She added, “It is military widows like us who should be honoured on a day like this because our husbands paid the ultimate price for the nation. Many of us lost our husbands while they were serving in the North-East, and now their families have been left abandoned.

“None of us has been empowered since we began celebrating this important day.”

Iliya explained that military widows are struggling to care for their families due to the challenging economic situation.

She praised the Nigerian Army for sponsoring the education of widows’ children but urged the state government to engage directly with the group to address their needs.

She said, “The government may have made efforts for us, but none of it has reached us. We plead with them to meet with us directly so that we can express our views through the proper channels.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, in an interview with journalists, urged Nigerians to contribute to the welfare of the families of fallen heroes.

Hamzat added that well-meaning Nigerians could help by taking responsibility for the education, training, and other needs of the children of fallen heroes.

NAN