Military leaders and other stakeholders have called for stronger family values, responsible leadership and a sustained safety culture to promote national security and development.

They made the call at a National Military Fathers’ Leadership and Family Well-Being Summit, organised by 2.0 SHE Safety and Health Initiative, in Lagos on Thursday.

Participants at the occasion highlighted the sacrifices of military personnel and the roles of families and communities in supporting national security.

The commander of 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Ayokunle Owolabi, described the summit as an opportunity to celebrate past achievements.

Mr Owolabi said the summit reflected on sacrifices and renewed commitment to the military’s mission. He stressed the need for military personnel to remain conscious of who they serve, their roots and the responsibilities attached to their profession.

The flag officer commanding the western naval command, Abubakar Mustapha, described the summit as a laudable initiative.

Mr Mustapha said that the theme of the summit, ‘Military Fathers as Protectors, Strengthening Families, Securing Community’, dwelt on core values of life.

Mabel Abel-Onaiwu, founder of the SHE Safety and Health Initiative, said the initiative was established to recognise and appreciate the contributions of women, families and other groups supporting military personnel.

Ms Abel-Onaiwu noted that families played a significant role in sustaining those serving the country, adding that building a stronger Nigeria required recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

(NAN)