The widows of soldiers who died in the line of duty in northeastern Nigeria say they get very little help from the government which, they say, has failed them.

They told RNI that their husbands – whom they described as fallen heroes – were the breadwinners of their families and that now they needed help, especially with bringing up their children and providing an education for them.

One widow said: “Our husbands fought hard and gave their lives for this country. They brought in the money. And now that they are no longer with us we are suffering. The government has failed us.”

Maryam Abubakar Usman, whose husband died on the frontline, said she wanted the government to help her to set up a business so that she could be self-reliant and would then be able to pay for the education of her children.

She and other widows said every year the government gave them money and food but it was not enough. “Our children often go to bed hungry.”

Laraba Muhammad said: “My children have graduated from school but I lack money to further their education. I do not have anyone else I can call on for help. I’m asking the government to provide education scholarships for our children so that they can go to universities or colleges. Then they will get a degree or diploma and will be able to make something of the lives and be successful and productive.”

The widows said education was a very important aspect of life, which affected the development and socioeconomic wellbeing of a nation.

They were annoyed because of the continual struggle for the upkeep of their children’s education. “Our husbands fought bravely and lost their lives in battles to save the country.”

Halima Zamdai, a mother of two, said: “Up until now I have never received the gratuity of my late husband. My children are jobless and the little assistance we do get does not go far. One thing I am definite about is that I will never resort to begging.”

Retired Colonel William Adamu Manga, who works for the Borno State council department that provides assistance to soldiers’ widows, said: “The government gives out foodstuff, including rice and millet, and clothes and cash annually. This year 730 widows in Borno State benefited from the assistance given by the state.”

He said he realised that the widows were struggling to educate their children.

“The government is working on it and, hopefully, the necessary assistance will be available soon,” Manga said.