The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has lauded the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) for its impactful contributions to the welfare, unity and overall well-being of families of personnel of the Armed Forces.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS gave the commendation on Monday while receiving the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, alongside members of the association’s executive during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
Lieutenant General Shaibu pledged the Nigerian Army’s sustained support and collaboration with DEPOWA to enable the association effectively deliver on its mandate. He encouraged the organisation to continue its vocational training and empowerment programmes designed to equip personnel and their families with relevant skills to realise their full potential.
The COAS particularly applauded DEPOWA’s interventions in the education sector, including the renovation of schools in Abuja and the construction of laboratory facilities. He described the initiatives as wholesome and impactful, noting that they would significantly enhance the learning environment and improve the overall well-being of children of military personnel.
He further noted that DEPOWA’s activities align with his vision for the Nigerian Army, which is “to advance the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a multi-agency environment.”
Earlier in her remarks, the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, congratulated Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu on his appointment as the 25th Chief of Army Staff. She explained that the visit was aimed at reaffirming DEPOWA’s commitment to strengthening support systems for families of personnel of the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force.
Mrs Oluyede emphasised the importance of empowering and equipping these families to thrive despite the unique demands and challenges associated with military and police service. She also commended the COAS for his resolute focus on enhancing combat readiness, improving troop welfare and morale, and sustaining professionalism within the Nigerian Army.
The DEPOWA President concluded by soliciting the continued support of the Nigerian Army to ensure the successful implementation of the association’s programmes nationwide.
