Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state launches a comprehensive empowerment package for widows of fallen military, police, and paramilitary personnel, signalling a shift from symbolic remembrance to long-term economic support for families of fallen heroes.
The governor unveils the initiative during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph on Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, Mediaplusng.com reports. He says the programme is designed to help widows rebuild their lives through sustainable income opportunities rather than short-term welfare gestures.
Under the scheme, the state government plans to construct 150 lock-up shops across the state. Of this number, 100 shops are reserved for widows of fallen military personnel, while 50 will go to widows of deceased police officers and other paramilitary operatives. Each beneficiary will also receive a take-off grant to support small-scale businesses and encourage self-reliance.
Governor Eno explains that the initiative reflects his administration’s people-centred development policy. According to him, true remembrance must go beyond annual ceremonies and translate into practical actions that restore dignity and stability to families who have lost their breadwinners in national service. He notes that empowerment remains the most respectful way to honour fallen heroes.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the governor also announces immediate financial interventions amounting to ₦120 million as part of the 2026 remembrance activities. The package includes ₦10 million for officers on parade, ₦20 million for widows present at the event, ₦20 million for Nigerian Legion members, and additional support for serving security personnel.
Governor Eno recalls that in the previous year, his administration disbursed ₦250 million in welfare support to families of fallen heroes. He says ₦150 million was paid to widows of fallen military officers, while ₦100 million went to widows of fallen police personnel, stressing that the state remains consistent in its support for security families.
He further states that construction of the lock-up shops will begin as soon as suitable land is provided by the relevant military and security formations. To ensure transparency and timely delivery, the governor says the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Bureau of Cooperatives will jointly supervise the implementation of the project.
Governor Eno emphasises that widows of fallen heroes deserve dignity, opportunity, and inclusion in economic life. He adds that the empowerment package will not only reduce poverty among beneficiaries but also contribute to local economic growth by supporting small businesses across the state.
Speaking on national unity, the governor urges political leaders to see politics as a tool for service rather than division. He calls for responsible leadership that prioritises peace, security, and the welfare of citizens, especially families that bear the cost of defending the nation.
Governor Eno also commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he describes as improving security conditions in parts of the country. He says sustained support for the armed forces and their families remains critical to achieving lasting peace and national stability.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony in Uyo features the laying of wreaths, prayers for fallen heroes, and a moment of reflection for serving personnel. Widows, veterans, security officers, and government officials attend the event, marking it as both a solemn and purposeful occasion.
Many beneficiaries express appreciation for the empowerment initiative, describing it as a rare move that gives widows a sense of hope and independence. They commend the state government for turning remembrance into meaningful action.
As the ceremony concludes, Governor Eno reiterates his administration’s commitment to honouring sacrifice through policies that uplift families, strengthen communities, and promote a more compassionate and secure society in Akwa Ibom State.
