The chief of army staff, Waidi Shaibu, has lauded the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association for its strategic role in strengthening military families and enhancing the morale of troops across the country.

Mr Shaibu gave the commendation when the president of NAOWA, Safiyya Shaibu, led members of the association’s executive on a courtesy visit to the army headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement by its spokeswoman, Appolonia Anele, on Wednesday.

He said NAOWA’s contributions in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and community development had continued to provide crucial support to families of personnel, enabling officers and soldiers to discharge their duties with focus and emotional stability.

Mr Shaibu reiterated the need for continuous skills acquisition, digital literacy, and awareness of fake news among military families, noting the growing importance of technology in national development.

He urged the association to sustain its support for the army command and NAOWA Hospital, and to extend similar initiatives to the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association.

Mrs Shaibu congratulated her husband on his appointment and outlined NAOWA’s vision to build a united and innovative association that promotes self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods for military families.

The army chief’s wife said key priorities included empowerment, education, healthcare and welfare, anchored on entrepreneurship, digital skills and financial sustainability.

She also announced plans to establish a NAOWA Innovation Hub and revitalise NAOWA projects across army formations.

(NAN)