Security News Digest (2025)

29/11/2025

NAOWA empowers barracks women, unveils Multipurpose Cooperative Society

The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) has officially launched the NAOWA Multipurpose Cooperative Society (NMCS), a major step toward boosting entrepreneurship and strengthening the economic wellbeing of women across military barracks nationwide.

The President of NAOWA, Mrs Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, unveiled the Cooperative on Thursday in Abuja, describing it as a dependable platform through which members can save, access credit, and grow sustainable businesses.

Mrs Shaibu noted that the NMCS was conceptualised by her predecessor and the current President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, whose foresight laid the foundation for the initiative.

She said the cooperative aligns with NAOWA’s commitment to improving the welfare of officers’ wives, supporting young entrepreneurs, and empowering widows of fallen heroes.

“Today is a proud moment for our Association. This cooperative will serve as a financial lifeline to strengthen our members economically and promote self-reliance within our communities,” she said.

Mrs Shaibu commended Mrs Oluyede for her visionary leadership, describing it as fitting for her to perform the formal launch.

In her remarks, the DEPOWA President, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, who was the Special Guest of Honour for the occasion, described the cooperative as “a vision born in one administration and nurtured into reality by another,” emphasising that strong leadership transcends personal tenure. She said the NMCS will provide structure, discipline, and financial tools required for women to thrive despite the unique pressures of military life.

“In NAOWA, we do not build for ourselves alone. We build for the women coming after us. This is about dignity — ensuring that no woman in our community stands alone,” she said.

Mrs Oluyede noted that financial literacy training, youth-capacity development and institutional partnerships would further strengthen long-term stability for NAOWA families, praising the current leadership for sustaining the vision.

05/01/2025

NAOWA SPREADS CHRISTMAS JOY TO TARABA IDPs, STRENGTHENS PLEDGE TO UNITY AND CHARITY

The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), led by its President, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, has extended the warmth and joy of the Christmas season to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Jalingo, Taraba State. The outreach, held on December 23, 2024, at the IDP Camp situated at Shawuya Primary School, Abuja Phase 1, aimed to bring hope and relief to displaced families in the region.

Representing the NAOWA President, Dr Mrs Rachael Uwa, the Zonal Coordinator of the 6 Brigade Chapter, highlighted the initiative's alignment with NAOWA's core values of “Unity and Charity.” She stated, “This outreach reflects our motto and mission to foster hope, compassion, and unity, particularly during the festive season. We are here to show solidarity and provide support to the resilient individuals and families within this camp.”

The outreach program distributed food items and essential relief materials to over 300 residents, addressing immediate needs while symbolizing NAOWA’s dedication to uplifting vulnerable communities. Mrs Oluyede emphasized that the gesture was more than a provision of aid—it was a reaffirmation of the association's commitment to ensuring that no one feels abandoned during challenging times. “We recognize your resilience and hope this gesture brings comfort and renewed hope,” she added.

The event underscored the enduring power of compassion and shared humanity, with the NAOWA President expressing gratitude to members whose contributions made the initiative a reality. “Your generosity exemplifies the spirit of service and compassion that NAOWA stands for,” she affirmed.

In response, the head of the camp, Mr John Buba, expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the beneficiaries. He thanked NAOWA for their timely support and prayed for continued strength and success in the association’s charitable endeavors.

The outreach served as a powerful reminder of NAOWA’s unwavering commitment to unity, charity, and the well-being of the less privileged during the festive season and beyond.

10/07/2024

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION HAILS PRESIDENT TINUBU FOR CREATING LIVESTOCK MINISTRY
*… It will transform livestock fortunes and boost the nation's economy - Buratai*

In a statement released by the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, the Foundation has expressed its gratitude and support for President Tinubu’s decision to create a new ministry focused on livestock affairs. The Foundation, led by its Chairman Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, believes that this new Ministry will have a transformative impact on the nation’s livestock industry and will significantly boost the country’s economy.

The Grand Patron of the Foundation, His Excellency Amb Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai Rtd CFR, former Chief of Army Staff, has also commended President Tinubu for this strategic decision. He believes that the establishment of this new Ministry is a very strategic decision. It will transform livestock fortunes and boost the nation's economy, address key issues related to livestock production, and security in the country, he added.

The Foundation, known for its commitment to humanity and welfare, has emphasized that the Renewed Hope Agenda is indeed real and encourages Nigerians to continue to have confidence in the administration. The Foundation believes that this decision will bring about lasting solutions to the challenges facing the livestock industry in Nigeria.

As the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation continues to advocate for the well-being of all Nigerians, it stands ready to support initiatives that will improve the livelihoods of individuals and communities across the country. The foundation remains dedicated to its mission of promoting humanity and providing assistance to those in need.

28/06/2024

NAOWA PRESIDENT CELEBRATES ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY
_Urges members to renew their commitment and look forward to a future filled with greater accomplishments and positive change_

The President of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Mariya Abiodun has charged NAOWA members to renew their commitment to the Association, while looking forward to a future filled with greater accomplishments and positive change.

The NAOWA President gave the charge during a special event organized to commemorate her one year anniversary in office.

In her remarks at the exquisite event held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers Mess 1 Multipurpose hall, Asokoro, Abuja on Saturday, 22 June 2024, Mrs Lagbaja stated that the celebration, which was themed: "The Journey so Far: Next Level", had been organized for members to reflect on the remarkable journey undertaken together over the course of the past year.

She disclosed that over the past twelve months, NAOWA, under her leadership, had embarked on numerous outreaches, programmes and initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of members, uplifting the barrack community and its environs, as well as supporting the humanitarian efforts of the Nigerian Army.

She further highlighted that she had equally commissioned several projects initiated by some NAOWA chairpersons and coordinators which effectively demonstrated that NAOWA presiding members at all levels had fully embraced and keyed into her vision of "Sustaining Legacies through Unwavering Commitment to Unity and Service for the Betterment of Humanity"

Mrs Lagbaja thereafter expressed her delight in leading such a dedicated and vibrant community, stating that with the continuous support of members, the association would achieve even more remarkable milestones in the years ahead.

The NAOWA President then congratulated the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH) for the occasion, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja on his one year anniversary in office as the COAS and thanked him for his steadfast support and encouragement to NAOWA at all times.

In a similar vein, the NAOWA President also expressed her most profound gratitude to Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu _CON_
for her unwavering support and encouragement to NAOWA in particular and the NA at large.

Speaking, the SGOH, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja congratulated the NAOWA President on one year of purposeful and impactful leadership, which had been been hugely instrumental to the NA's successes this past year.

He stated that the transformation the association has witnessed in one year of her leadership, was truly remarkable, praising her for her innovative and transformative projects, including the modernized NAOWA Secreteriat, remodeled NAOWA Event Centre, Guest House and Recreational Park.

General Lagbaja thereafter implored the Association to expand its activities in close concert with NASWA, to accommodate wider participation of military wives, while equally assuring of the Army Headquarters' support in achieving even more than it was able to accomplish this past year.

Highlights of the event were the launching of the NAOWA President's Next Level Transformation Agenda, display by pupils of NAOWA primary school, goodwill messages from well wishers, cutting of the anniversary cake and group photographs.

Dignitaries present at the event were the Host, the NAOWA President, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the SGOH, the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters, Wives of PSOs, NAOWA Chairpersons and Coordinators, members of the prestigious 39 Regular Course Angels, members of NAOWA and NASWA, amongst other distinguished invited guests.

11/04/2024

Buratai Lauds Allen Onyema On Air Peace’s Inaugural Flight to London, Calls for Support

The former Chief of Army Staff, His Excellency, Ambassador Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR, lauded Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace Airlines for the successful inaugural Air Peace flight from Lagos to London.

In a statement, Buratai hailed the Chairman’s unwavering commitment and patriotism amidst all obstacles on the Lagos – London flight by his airline on March 30th, 2024 which arguably crashed fares on the lucrative route by about fifty percent for the benefit of Nigerians.

According to Buratai, he saluted the courage and resilience of Onyema which has made him a barrier breaker and a line crosser in the aviation industry and whose triumphant launch of the inaugural Air Peace flight from Lagos to London has heralded a new era of competitive and accessible air travel for Nigerians.

He, therefore, implores the federal government and Nigerians in general to support him wholeheartedly and not let his efforts go down the drain like others in times past. According to him, in light of the interview by Allen Onyema on Channels TV Politics Today of 9 April 2024, detailing the challenges faced with both local regulators and British Airways authorities, it is clear that the support of our government is crucial as he is like the moon among the stars that needs the support and encouragement from all to shield him from all enemies of progress. Buratai admonished the British Airways authorities to show sportsmanship, maturity, and be fair to all airline operators plying the Abuja – London route. Buratai, while pleading with the BA authorities, he nevertheless urged the Nigerian Ministry of Aviation to apply a tit-for-tat approach, should BA or its agents remain recalcitrant in the face of the current challenges being faced by Air Peace in London Gatwick Airport.

Continuing, Buratai also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR led government for providing the platform for Chief Allen Onyeama to succeed in his patriotic endeavours Air Peace and its Chairman/CEO should be seen as Ambassadors of Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

11/03/2024

Over 5000 Families Benefit From NAOWA’s Humanitarian Outreach

Over 5000 families have benefited from the humanitarian outreach of the President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association, NAOWA.

The outreach which took place at the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja on Monday, witnessed a mass turn out of women from the various Nigerian Army units and commands across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The beneficiaries include member of the Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives Association (NASWA), Widows of the Fallen Heroes among other Barack community members.

The President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja in a brief remark at the venue said it became imperative for NAOWA to embark on the outreach in the holy month of Ramadan and Lent to strengthen the bond of love, unity and respect.

Mrs Lagbaja reminded all President of the need to demonstrate togetherness in love and to show support for one another as one great community.

She said; “We are gathered here to celebrate amd share in the joy of giving and supporting one another, we are giving the items to support households as a symbol of NAOWA’s commitment to the betterment of the barracks community.

“We are trying to give our support and encourage the women in this holy season of Lent and Ramadan in consonance with our NAOWA motto; Unity and charity, and humanitarian activities is what NAOWA is known for. We are also reaching out to orphanages and other charity organisations. Some of these women came from Army formations in Suleja, Gwagwalada and other environs around the FCT.”

Mrs Lagbaja acknowledged and appreciated the strength and tenacity of the women of NAOWA and NASWA for their commitment in keeping the home front while the spouses are away carrying out assigned duties.

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to Voice of Nigeria appreciated the President of NAOWA for the kind gesture shown to them and prayed for Gods continual blessings upon her.

The food Items include 25kg of rice, cooking oil, a pack of milk amd milo beverage and a pack of sugar.

Among the beneficiaries are Windows of the Fallen Heroes, members of the Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives Association, Among other Army formations and units as well as Wives of sister security services.

09/03/2024

IWD 2024: PRESIDENT NAOWA ADVOCATES FOR MORE PROSPECTS AND EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN TO INSPIRE INCLUSION
_Calls For a World Free of Bias and Discrimination Against Women_

The President of the Nigerian Army Officer's Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja has called for more prospects and empowerment for women in order to have a more inclusive society devoid of gender inequality, bias and discrimination against women.

The NAOWA President made the call during a glamorous Symposium held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers' Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, on Friday, 8 March 2024, organized as part of the Association’s activities to commemorate the Year 2024 International Women's Day (IWD).

In her remarks, the NAOWA President stressed that IWD is a global movement which recognizes the crucial roles women play in developing the society, and equally highlights the need to address gender gaps and work towards creating a world where women have equal opportunities in all aspects of life.

She further disclosed that International Women’s Day also served as a platform to raise awareness about issues affecting women globally, some of which include gender-based violence, discrimination, child marriage and challenges of getting quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, amongst others.

Mrs Lagbaja then emphasized that the lack of inclusion of women in society, is a major challenge which prevents many women from reaching their full potential. She then seized the occasion to call for more inclusion for women in society.

Similarly, in her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), the President of the Defence and Police Officer's Wives Association (DEPOWA) Mrs Lilian Oghogho Musa, revealed that IWD holds immense significance in recognising the remarkable achievements of women throughout history and promoting both gender equality and women empowerment.

Dignitaries who graced the event include the Chief Host, the President Nigerian Army Officer's Wives Association (NAOWA) Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the SGOH, the President DEPOWA Mrs Lilian Oghogho Musa, the Wife of the Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Hajiya Binta Abdul'Aziz Yar'adua, the Education Officer UNICEF, Dr. Judith Giwa - Amu, the Wife of the DG SSS, Hajiya Aisha Yusuf Bichi, Deputy Director and former state Coordinator NYSC Niger State, Mrs Justina Abishai Andirya, and the President National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Hajiya Lami Adamu Lau.

Others Dignitaries in attendance were the Assistant Director Risk management Department at the CBN, Abuja, Mrs Eyitoyosi Shonibare, the Consultant Psychiatrist, Department of Psychiatry, National Hospital, Abuja, Dr Olusegun Shoyombo, and members of DEPOWA, NAOWA, and NCWS, amongst other distinguished invited guests.

Highlights of the event were the symbolic awareness walk, presentations by resource persons, interactive session, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.

19/12/2023

YULETIDE: NAOWA PRESIDENT DONATES FOOD ITEMS TO OVER 1500 WIDOWS/SOLDIERS WIVES, OTHERS
_Assures of NAOWA's Commitment to Betterment of the Barracks Community_

Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja was agog with festivities recently when the President of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja distributed food items to over 1,500 widows of fallen heroes who have paid the supreme price in the service to our dear nation, members of the Nigerian Army Soldiers' Wives Association (NASWA) and members of the Military Officers' Widows Association (MIOWA) during a grand humanitarian outreach as part of NAOWA's end of year 2023 activities.

The humanitarian outreach which took place yesterday, 16 December 2023 was organized as part of NAOWA's robust Civil Military Cooperation drive, in line with the President's transformative vision of "Sustaining Legacies through Unwavering Commitment to Unity and Service for the Betterment of Humanity".

Speaking at the event, the NAOWA President affirmed that the event was organized as a demonstration of her commitment, love and solidarity for the barracks community.

She also noted that it was a forum to come together in harmony and celebrate in the spirit of Christmas as one great community bonded in love, unity and respect for one another.

"We are here as one body to celebrate this season of love by giving out food and other items which would support the household during this festive season. Please accept these items as a symbol of NAOWA’s commitment to the betterment of the barracks community," she noted.

Mrs Lagbaja also thanked all NAOWA and NASWA members for their roles in keeping the home-front, while their spouses are away carrying out their assigned duties.

In her words, "I must say, that our dedication, resilience and sacrifice has helped immensely in the operational successes of the Nigerian Army, and also in the development of the barrack community".

She thereafter urged them to ensure that peace reigns supreme in their homes, emphasizing that peace remains the bedrock for Sustaining development and progress.

Finally, the NAOWA President enjoined the beneficiaries to always imbibe the culture of savings and investment while re-echoing the Association's continuous support.

Highlights of the event were the distribution of food items to over 1,500 persons comprising widows, NASWA and MIOWA members, cultural dance performances and group photographs.

Security News Digest

29/11/2025

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10/07/2024

28/06/2024

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