The Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Augustine Ogedegbe (JP), has reaffirmed the council’s commitment to honoring Nigeria’s fallen and living heroes while unveiling plans for a welfare and skills acquisition initiative for ex-servicemen and youths in the local government.
Speaking during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day commemoration, Hon. Ogedegbe described the celebration as not just ceremonial but deeply personal and patriotic.
According to him, the remembrance is a solemn recognition of the sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers who fought in various wars and peacekeeping missions to protect the nation’s sovereignty.
“These are people who went to war either to kill or to die in defense of Nigeria. Many died, many were injured, and today some of their families are living in poverty. That is why we celebrate the living heroes and also encourage support for the families of the fallen,” he stated.
The Chairman revealed that in Ethiope East, there is an association of widows of late military personnel, with whom he regularly interacts and supports through empowerment programs.
“I always meet with them and assist them. Even recently during the military season, I supported them. My wife, as the Chairperson of a local initiative, also accommodated them through a food bank program,” he added.
On future plans, Hon. Ogedegbe announced that the council intends to establish a structured welfare and skills acquisition scheme aimed at empowering ex-servicemen, their families, and interested youths within the local government.
He explained that the initiative would create platforms for vocational training in areas such as plumbing, electrical installation, and other technical skills that can promote self-reliance and job creation.
“We want to create an avenue where people can learn practical skills, become self-employed, and even employ others. We are confident in our capacity and available resources to make this work,” he said.
The Chairman further emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in supporting veterans and their families, noting that their sacrifices should never be forgotten.
