The Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General A.O. Balogun, on Friday, 26 December 2025, distributed foodstuffs, cash, clothing and gift items to widows, magajiyas and children during the Commander’s End-of-Year Luncheon for Widows and Children held at the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) Primary School, Ekehuan Cantonment, Benin City.
Speaking at the event, Brigadier General Balogun described welfare as a critical pillar of morale, discipline and operational effectiveness, noting that the initiative was in line with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu’s Soldiers’ First Concept.
He said the luncheon was also aimed at reassuring widows of personnel who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation that the Nigerian Army has not forgotten them.
According to him, while the yuletide is a period of celebration, it is important to remember families who may feel a sense of loss due to the absence of their loved ones. He stressed that the Nigerian Army remains committed to standing by the widows and children of fallen heroes, appreciating the sacrifices made by their husbands and fathers in the service of the nation.
In a press statement, the Ag Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Juliet Adamu, quoted the Brigade Commander as saying that the gesture demonstrates the Army’s care and compassion for the families of its fallen personnel, adding that such support is a reflection of national gratitude for their sacrifices.
The event was graced by the Director, Military Hospital Benin (MHB), Brigadier General Paulina Aburime, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. She commended the Brigade Commander for the initiative, describing it as a noble gesture that brought smiles to the faces of widows and soldiers’ families. She also praised the sense of love and unity within Ekehuan Cantonment and encouraged the sustenance of such humanitarian efforts.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Umar Abdulrashid-Eleshi and Mrs Queen Obazuwa, expressed appreciation to the Brigade Commander for the support. Mrs Obazuwa, in particular, appealed for the continuation of such assistance to help ease the challenges faced by widows and their children.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of food items, clothing and cash gifts to 50 widows and six magajiyas. Children were also presented with various gift items and engaged in fun activities and competitions, with outstanding participants receiving rewards.
