Gov. Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom, has called on all Corporate organisations and privileged Nigerians to see the resettlement of war veterans as a collective responsibility.

Emmanuel said that the task of assisting war veterans to get back to normal life should not be seen as the sole responsibility of government.

The Governor, represented by his deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo, said this during the launching of the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem in Uyo on Thursday.

He called on Corporate Organisations, individuals of means and wherewithal to support this worthy cause.

Emmanuel said that Akwa Ibom government would continue to partner with the Nigerian Army through intervention programmes such as the renovation and remodeling of residential buildings in the barracks for the gallant soldiers.

“We remain dedicated to the welfare of our Nigerian Legionnaires. We will continue to partner with the relevant agencies that are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring our Legionnaires are properly taken care of, and that their labour in the service was not in vain.

“As I have always said, the ultimate test of patriotism is when a man or woman leaves the comfort of his or her homeland, signs up to defend the territorial integrity of his fatherland, electing in the process, to put his or her life on the line for the country,” Emmanuel said.

The governor commended the sacrifice made by men and women of the Nigerian Army, stating that their efforts have helped in keeping the country in peace and unity.

He said the Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Appeal Fund was the least that could be done to show appreciation for the huge sacrifices made by the gallant soldiers, including those who paid the ultimate price.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Dr Ini Adiakpan, lauded the state government for the support provided on the yearly celebration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day in the state.

“This launch provides opportunity for Corporate Organisations, individuals and all Nigerians to render financial and material support to the families of the fallen heroes, veterans, the wounded and incapacitated ones.

“Let us encourage the Legion and the Nigerian Army for their immense contributions in the continuity of this noble dreams, pray for more peace and victory for those alive,” Adiakpan said.

Adiakpan equally appealed to members of the Legion to volunteer their services and experience in their various Local Governments to help secure the state.

In his welcome remarks, the State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Comrade Joseph Esu, commended the state government for the support enjoyed over the years.