Theatre Commander Commends NAOWA's Humanitarian Efforts, Pledges Support for Military Families

The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Major General WB Idris, has commended the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA) for its sustained humanitarian and empowerment programmes aimed at improving the welfare of military families, barracks communities and vulnerable groups.

Major General Idris gave the commendation on Wednesday while receiving the Chairperson of the NAOWA 8 Division Chapter, Mrs. Chinelo Koughna, and members of her delegation during a courtesy visit to the Theatre Headquarters.

The Commander praised the association for implementing initiatives that have improved the living standards of military families and promoted self-reliance among spouses and youths within barracks communities.

He noted that the welfare of military families plays a vital role in boosting the morale and operational effectiveness of troops, stressing that soldiers perform their duties with greater confidence when they are assured that their families are adequately cared for.

Major General Idris reaffirmed the Theatre Command's commitment to supporting NAOWA's programmes, assuring the delegation of continued collaboration to ensure that beneficiaries derive maximum value from the association's interventions.

Earlier, Mrs. Koughna expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander for the warm reception and commended his leadership in overseeing operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as well as his commitment to the welfare of troops and ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the North-West.

She explained that NAOWA is a non-governmental, non-profit humanitarian organisation dedicated to empowering women, youths and children through education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, charity and community service, in line with the vision of the National President of the association, Dr. Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu.

According to her, the NAOWA 8 Division Chapter has empowered hundreds of women and youths through vocational training in fashion design, hairdressing, catering, shoe and bag making, digital skills acquisition and other entrepreneurial ventures.

Mrs. Koughna also disclosed that the association has continued to support the wives of fallen military personnel through the donation of food items, relief materials and start-up capital to encourage small-scale businesses and financial independence.

She added that NAOWA's humanitarian activities also include hospital outreach programmes within and outside military barracks, donations of medical equipment and relief materials, as well as sustained engagement with stakeholders to address the welfare needs of barracks communities.

The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs, the signing of the visitors' register, a group photograph and a visit to the Wall of Heroes, a monument bearing the names of personnel of Operation FANSAN YAMMA who have lost their lives in service since the operation was established in 2024.