By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Legion has conferred the title of Grand Patron on the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, in recognition of his support for military veterans and their families.
The honour was bestowed during the visit of the legion’s national leadership to Ogun as part of its ongoing South-West tour.
This is contained in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, by the Director, Corporate Affairs, Nigerian Legion, Adetoro Soaga.
The National Chairman of the Legion, Ms Morenike Henry, said the recognition was a testament to the traditional ruler’s consistent commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen and community development.
Henry described the Alake as a strong pillar of support for veterans in the state and beyond.
She used the occasion to call for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to improve the welfare of veterans, urging greater support for policies and programmes that enhance their well-being.
She also appealed to veterans to maintain unity and discipline, stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving internal disputes.
The legion chairman reiterated her commitment to addressing welfare challenges, including pensions and allowances, and pledged to engage relevant authorities to resolve lingering issues.
She further assured widows and families of fallen soldiers of continued support through empowerment initiatives.
In his response, Gbadebo III commended Henry’s leadership and pledged continued support for the legion and its activities.
Also speaking, the state Chairman of the legion, Mariam Adebayo, praised the national leadership for its engagement with members at the grassroots and reaffirmed the state chapter’s support.
Similarly, the Coordinator of the Military Widows Association in the state, Mrs Oluwakemi Alao, lauded ongoing empowerment programmes targeted at improving the livelihoods of widows.
The visit also featured an engagement with troops at the 35 Artillery Brigade, where the Commander, Brig.-Gen. Godwin Nwamba, commended reforms within the legion and called for sustained efforts to align with global best practices.
The tour forms part of the legion’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with veterans and key stakeholders across the country.(NAN)