As part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2025, the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) has distributed food items, essential supplies, and cash gifts to widows of fallen soldiers and wounded personnel at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.

The event, held on Friday, was described as a “Special Humanitarian Outreach” and targeted over 120 widows from the 1 Division’s Area of Responsibility. Additional recipients included women in maternity wards, children in the accident and emergency unit, and injured officers receiving treatment at the hospital.

Speaking through her representative, Mrs Bilkisu Ibrahim, the Deputy President of NAOWA and wife of the Chief of Policy and Plans, NAOWA President Mrs Mernan Oluyede said the initiative was a reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerian military personnel and their families.

“The NADCEL 2025 celebration is not only about military achievements and parades. It is also about compassion, reflection, and the renewal of our commitment to those who bear the heaviest burdens of military service,” she stated.

Mrs. Oluyede added that the outreach aligned with this year’s NADCEL theme, “Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for the Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive,” and emphasised the importance of addressing the human side of national defence.

“To our dear widows: we see your pain, your strength, and your courage. This modest gesture carries with it our love, gratitude, and enduring promise to walk beside you — today and always,” she said.

Mrs. Oluyede also reiterated NAOWA’s goal of building a more inclusive and resilient community within military barracks, saying, “At NAOWA, we believe that transformation begins with empathy. It begins with a soldier’s well-being and the strength of the family behind the uniform.”

The outreach was part of NAOWA’s broader vision to promote unity and service among military families. Some beneficiaries were seen in tears as they received their packages.