By Miriam Humbe
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) joins the nation in solemnly commemorating this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, paying heartfelt tribute to the gallant men and women who sacrificed their lives for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.
In a statement signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), the Centre called on the government and all stakeholders to demonstrate a lasting commitment to honoring the sacrifices of these heroes.
This includes ensuring that the entitlements due to their families are paid without delay and implementing sustainable support structures for their dependents.
“While we celebrate the courage and selflessness of our fallen heroes, it is essential to go beyond symbolic gestures.
“Their families, who continue to bear the burden of their loss, deserve tangible support and recognition.
“It is not only a national duty but a moral imperative to ensure these families are cared for with dignity and respect,” Comrade Rafsanjani said.
CISLAC urged the government to adopt a proactive approach in addressing the welfare of families of fallen heroes, emphasizing the following actions:
*Timely Payment of Entitlements: The government must prioritize the prompt payment of benefits and pensions to the families of deceased service members. Delayed payments exacerbate the grief and hardship faced by these families.
*Empowerment Programs for Widows: Comprehensive empowerment initiatives should be implemented to equip widows with the skills and resources necessary to become self-reliant. This can include vocational training, grants, and access to small-scale business opportunities.
*Educational Support for Children: CISLAC advocates for scholarships and educational support programs to ensure that the children of fallen heroes have access to quality education and opportunities to build a brighter future.
*National Recognition and Inclusion: The families of fallen heroes should be held in high esteem, receiving national recognition for their sacrifices. They should also be included in programs that celebrate their contributions to the nation’s stability and security.
*Collaboration with Civil Society: CISLAC calls for stronger collaboration between civil society organizations and the government to develop and monitor policies aimed at improving the welfare of the families of fallen service members.
“Our fallen heroes have paid the ultimate price for the peace and security we enjoy today.
“Their sacrifices must not go unrecognized, and their families must not be forgotten.
“Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a call to action for us all to uphold the legacy of these brave men and women by supporting their loved ones in every possible way,” Comrade Rafsanjani said.
He said that CISLAC remained committed to advocating for policies that ensure the welfare of those who have sacrificed for Nigeria’s unity and security.
“As we honor our fallen heroes today, let us collectively pledge to support their families and uphold their legacy”, he said.
