The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, (JTF NW OPFY), Major General WB Idris, has commended the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) for its unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of military families, barracks communities and the wider society through its humanitarian and empowerment initiatives.

The Theatre Commander made the commendation while receiving the Chairperson, NAOWA 8 Division Chapter, Mrs. Chinelo Koughna, and members of her delegation during a courtesy visit to the Theatre Headquarters on Wednesday, 22 July 2026.

Major General Idris lauded the Chairperson for the numerous programmes initiated by the association to improve the living standards of military families and promote self-reliance among spouses and youths within the barracks community.

He stressed that a stable home front remains a critical factor in enhancing troops’ morale and operational effectiveness, noting that soldiers perform their duties with greater confidence when assured that their families are adequately cared for.

The Theatre Commander reaffirmed the commitment of the Theatre Command to supporting NAOWA’s programmes, assuring the delegation of sustained collaboration to ensure that beneficiaries derive maximum value from the association’s interventions.

Earlier in her remarks, Mrs. Koughna expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander for the warm reception and his exemplary leadership in guiding the operations of troops under Operation Fansan Yamma.

She also commended his unwavering commitment to troops’ welfare and his sustained efforts towards restoring peace and security across the North West region.

Highlighting the association’s mandate, Mrs. Koughna explained that NAOWA is a non-governmental, non-profit and humanitarian organisation dedicated to empowering women, youths and children.

She noted that the association’s programmes align with the vision of the NAOWA National President, Dr. Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, focusing on self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods through education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, charity and community service.

The chairperson added that 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 further disclosed that the association has consistently supported the wives of fallen heroes through the donation of food items, relief materials and start-up capital to encourage small-scale businesses and financial independence.

She also highlighted the association’s humanitarian outreach, including hospital visits within and outside military barracks, donations of medical equipment and relief materials, and continuous engagement with stakeholders to address the welfare needs of barracks communities.

The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs, the signing of the visitors’ book, a group photograph, and visit to the Wall of Heroes — a
Monument inscribed with names of all the fallen heroes of OPFY from establishment in the Year 2024 to date.