As part of activities marking the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), has presented food items and cash to widows of fallen heroes.
Similar gesture was also extended to women in maternity wards, children in the accident and emergency department, wounded officers and soldiers at the 44 Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.
Tagged special humanitarian outreach, the president of NAOWA, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede said the occasion was more than giving but about honouring and uplifting a vital part of the Army family: “the widows of fallen heroes drawn from various units under the 1 Division Area of Responsibility.”
Represented by the deputy president and wife of the chief of Policy and Planning, Mrs Bilkisu Ibrahim, the president said, the benefiting 120 women represents courage, strength and dignity and reminded them of the sacrifices made by the gallant soldiers and the families they left behind.
“This outreach reflects NAOWA’s unwavering commitment to their welfare. In line with the NADCEL 2025 theme, ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive,’ NAOWA remains focused on the human element – the soldier and the family that supports them.
“NAOWA is deeply committed to building a more compassionate, inclusive and resilient barracks community where no widow is left behind. This is rooted in our inspiring vision of “Enhancing humanity through a steadfast commitment to unity, service, and the preservation of enduring legacies,” she stated
She emphasised that through outreach efforts, they honour the memories of fallen heroes and strengthen the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive by showing their families that they are never alone.
“To our dear widows, we see your pain, your strength and your courage. This modest gesture carries with it our love, gratitude and enduring promise to walk beside you – today and always. Please accept these packages as symbols of our care and support.
“May these items bring comfort to your homes and remind you that NAOWA stands with you,” she added.
She also extended appreciation to all NAOWA and Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives Association (NASWA) members who continue to uphold the home-front with strength and grace, praying that their “dedication sustains the unity and stability of our military community.”
Some of the beneficiaries of the gesture commended the leadership of NAOWA for remembering them, praying that the efforts of their deceased husbands never be in vain.
