In a significant move to bolster the economic standing of families of deceased military personnel, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has distributed a total of N50 million in non-interest micro-credit loans to widows of fallen heroes.
Ceremony at the Cenotaph
The disbursement ceremony took place on January 15, 2026, at the Cenotaph in Alagbaka, Akure, as part of the state's activities marking the Armed Forces Remembrance Day. Governor Aiyedatiwa personally handed cheques to the beneficiaries, emphasizing that the initiative is designed to support widows who have assumed the role of family breadwinners following the loss of their husbands.
Loan Details and Governor's Commitment
Under this unique scheme, each widow is receiving a loan sum ranging from N450,000 to N500,000. Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that this marks an increase from the previous amount of N200,000 per beneficiary. He firmly stated that the zero-interest loan program has become an integral part of the annual remembrance celebration in Ondo State and will be sustained regardless of economic challenges.
"This is our own little way of supporting their businesses to enable them to take care of the families left behind by their breadwinners," the Governor explained. "The sum of N50 million has been approved and released this year to accommodate more beneficiaries than last year."
Appeal for Sustainability and Security Assurance
While providing the financial support, Governor Aiyedatiwa made a heartfelt appeal to the beneficiaries. He urged them to ensure the program's longevity by prioritizing loan repayment. "We are equally appealing to the beneficiaries to join hands with the State Government to make the programme sustainable by making repayment of the loan their top priority," he said.
The Governor also used the occasion to commend security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps, for maintaining peace. He noted that Ondo State is recognized as one of Nigeria's most peaceful and safest states, pledging continued support for security operations within available resources.
In a related gesture, Governor Aiyedatiwa launched the emblem appeal fund with a personal donation of N5 million.
Government's Reassurance to Widows
Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, reaffirmed the administration's unwavering commitment to the welfare and empowerment of the widows of fallen heroes. She assured them of continuous support from the government.
This annual initiative underscores the Ondo State Government's dedication to putting smiles on the faces of the dependents of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
