President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has called on the Federal Government and military authorities to prioritise the welfare of both their serving and retired personnel, in view of the enormous sacrifices they render to sustain the peace and security of the country.
Saraki, according to a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, made the call after laying a wreath at the National Arcade to commemorate the 2018 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, led by President Muhammadu Buhari.
He lauded the national attention being accorded the nation’s armed forces through the annual celebration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, and said it was time to do more for members of the armed forces still serving and those who have retired, while not neglecting the families of the fallen heroes.
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Saraki said: “I must commend the Federal Government for its commitment to ensure that the nation’s armed forces are fully catered for in terms of operational logistics and welfare packages. But there is room for more when you consider that these are men who have given their all and continue to give their all for the security, stability and prosperity of the country.
“While serving members of the armed forces must be made to feel that their effort at protecting the territorial integrity of the country and assisting in the maintenance of law and order internally – often at the risk of their very lives – is not in vain, the welfare of the immediate families of all our fallen heroes must be given due consideration,” he stated.
While commending the leadership and members of the Nigerian armed forces for their continuous support to civil authorities in ensuring the safety of lives and property in all parts of the country, he called on them not to relent in restoring peace to all troubled parts of the country.
He pledged that the National Assembly will continue to ensure that all bills relating to the armed forces’ operation and welfare are given accelerated consideration and passage from time to time.
