The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, has said the strong support system built by the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) has continued to strengthen naval personnel and boost operational efficiency across commands.

Mr Abbas stated this in his goodwill message at the NOWA 60th Anniversary Dinner on Friday in Abuja.

He said the association had become a pillar of stability for naval families and a source of inspiration for officers serving in demanding operational environments.

He stated, “Our homes are secure, our children are cared for, and our families stand strong because of you. Many of the successes we record in the Navy today are rooted in the assurance that our families are well-supported.”

Mr Abbas praised the leadership of the NOWA President, Aisha Abbas, describing her as a “visionary and compassionate leader” whose initiatives had touched the lives of widows, orphans and vulnerable families.

In her remarks, the NOWA president said the anniversary was a moment to celebrate the association’s long journey of service and to renew its commitment to national development.

She said the devotion of NOWA members had been the heartbeat of the association, adding that the association would expand programmes to empower women and strengthen family support systems.

She thanked sister associations for their solidarity and pledged that NOWA would continue to stand as a strong pillar of support for naval personnel and their families.

Also speaking, the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mernan Oluyede, said NOWA’s 60-year journey reflected the collective strength and resilience of Nigerian military women.

Quoting Maya Angelou, Ms Oluyede noted that women who stand together in purpose “stand as ten thousand,” and commended NOWA for six decades of empowerment, charity, and support for naval communities.

She said DEPOWA, NAOWA, NAFOWA and POWA would continue to collaborate with NOWA to advance the welfare and wellbeing of military families.

The President, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Safiyyah Shaibu, also congratulated NOWA, noting that its achievements had inspired sister associations across the armed forces.

Ms Shaibu said the bond shared by the various women’s associations remained a vital support system for officers serving across the country.

The dinner featured music, awards and tributes to pioneer members who laid the foundation of what has grown into one of the oldest and most influential military women’s organisations in the country. 

(NAN)