When Mrs. Lilian Oghogho Gwabin Musa assumed office as the 16th President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), she stepped into a role steeped in legacy — one that required empathy, innovation, and leadership. Today, as she bows out gracefully, her tenure stands as a testament to what visionary women can achieve when passion meets purpose.
An indigene of Otor-Iyede in Isoko North, Delta State, Mrs. Musa brought into DEPOWA not only elegance and intellect but also a deep-seated commitment to service. Armed with a degree in Home Economics and years of experience as an educator, chef, and entrepreneur, she understood that the strength of any military community lies not just in the men in uniform but in the resilience of their families.
Transforming DEPOWA Through Visionary Leadership
Under her leadership, DEPOWA witnessed a quiet revolution — one defined by inclusivity, creativity, and empowerment. Mrs. Musa revitalized the Association’s mission to support military and police families by introducing programs that built capacity, encouraged self-reliance, and strengthened the bond among members.
She championed vocational and entrepreneurial training for women, equipping many officers’ wives with practical skills in baking, tailoring, catering, and small-scale enterprise management. These initiatives did not just foster financial independence but also boosted confidence among women who had long relied solely on their spouses’ incomes.
Recognizing the importance of education, Mrs. Musa expanded DEPOWA’s educational outreach by supporting schools within military communities and initiating scholarship opportunities for children of fallen heroes. Her emphasis on youth development and education reflected her belief that sustainable peace begins with empowering the next generation.
Health, Welfare, and Humanitarian Touch
One of Mrs. Musa’s most outstanding achievements was her focus on health and welfare. She led monthly Aerobic Exercise, Health Walk, Health Dance, medical outreach programs that provided free healthcare services, sensitization campaigns, and nutritional guidance for families of serving personnel and widows of fallen officers.
Her background in Home Economics gave her a unique perspective on promoting healthy living, balanced diets, and hygiene practices within barracks communities.
She also strengthened DEPOWA’s welfare system by initiating projects that provided food relief, startup grants, and soft loans to widows and less-privileged families — ensuring that no one within the DEPOWA fold was left behind.
Unity and Inter-Service Collaboration
Beyond social programs, Mrs. Musa worked tirelessly to foster unity among the wives of officers across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police. Through joint celebrations, cultural exchanges, and family events, she created an environment where bonds were formed beyond service lines. Her leadership rejuvenated the DEPOWA spirit of “Together We Serve Better,” reminding all that the strength of the forces lies in their shared humanity.
Her inclusive style of leadership also strengthened collaboration with other women’s groups, government agencies, and international partners — positioning DEPOWA as an active participant in national discourse on women empowerment, peacebuilding, and community development.
A Legacy of Grace and Impact
As Mrs. Lilian Oghogho Musa completes her tenure, she leaves behind an organization stronger, more connected, and more purposeful than she met it. Her time at the helm was not just about programs and projects, but about people — restoring dignity, hope, and togetherness among families that serve Nigeria selflessly.
Elegant, kind-hearted, and visionary, Mrs. Musa’s leadership style reflected her personality: calm yet firm, humble yet impactful. Whether mentoring young wives, visiting barracks schools, or hosting empowerment workshops, she led with authenticity and grace.
Beyond DEPOWA: A Life of Purpose
Outside her role as DEPOWA President, Mrs. Musa continues to thrive as an accomplished chef and entrepreneur — the Managing Director of Kuyash Concept Nig. Ltd., a brand known for excellence in baking and culinary creativity. She is a proud member of the Association of Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria and the International Cake Exploration Society (ICES), and has represented Nigeria in numerous workshops and exhibitions.
Married to the gallant Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and blessed with four wonderful children, Mrs. Musa embodies the balance of family, service, and leadership.
Her tenure as DEPOWA President may have ended, but her legacy will endure — in the lives she touched, the women she empowered, and the unity she inspired across Nigeria’s defence community.
