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Military widows canvass support for families of 17 slain soldiers, others
In an effort to show fallen troops that they are cherished even after their loved ones have passed away, the Military Widows Association of Nigeria's South-South zonal branch has appealed for complete support, including psychological and social care.
The association joined Nigerians and other members of the international community in denouncing the senseless deaths of 17 soldiers who were stationed in the Delta State hamlet of Okuoma on security and peacekeeping missions.
According to Dr. Gebrial Iyoh, Director of Operations at South-South MWAN, the terrible occurrence serves as a clear reminder of the risks that men and officers in our military forces endure while serving our country.
"The horrific murder not only severely damaged the psychological well-being of Nigerians, but it also has a life-changing impact on the families of the killed soldiers.
The love, support, direction, and financial stability that come with having a provider have been taken away from young widows and their kids. MWAN prays that their country, which their husbands sacrificed their lives for, will remember them.
"The widows are supported in ways other than monetary recompense. Acknowledgment of their loved ones' bravery, social and psychological support, and assistance with the children's schooling are all included.
MWAN thanked President Bola Tinubu for awarding the 17 fallen troops with national honours.
We call on the military, the administration, and the people of our wonderful nation to make sure that the families get all the support services they require.
"May it not be said in the future that the families will be forgotten after the initial outburst of criticism and promises of support."
The director takes advantage of the occasion to remind Nigerians that a large number of military wives become widows at an early age due to the less well-publicized deaths of soldiers who are serving both domestically and abroad.
He remarked that as a nation, we ought to be doing more for these widows, urging well-intentioned people, businesses, and other organisations to work with MWAN to provide for these widows.
Iyoh thanked the Delta State government for its assistance and urged it to continue supporting MWAN by selling its annual legion materials, such as stickers and emblems, to transporters so they may make money to support the family of fallen heroes.
He lamented that widows in the zone are increasing because soldiers are dying on daily basis unpublicized.