ABUJA, Nigeria — Safiyyah Shaibu, the newly appointed president of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), has pledged to expand support for families of serving, retired, and fallen military personnel.
Shaibu made the commitment during a formal handover ceremony in Abuja, where she succeeded Mernan Oluyede, who now leads the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
In her inaugural address, Shaibu praised her predecessor’s leadership and vowed to build on existing programs that promote family welfare, women’s empowerment, and education within Army communities.
She emphasized sustainability, inclusion, and innovation as guiding principles for her tenure, stating that empowering military families contributes to national strength and cohesion.
“Service is the heartbeat of NAOWA,” she said. “We will continue to empower, educate, and care for our communities because when military families thrive, the nation becomes stronger.”
A chartered accountant and forensic auditor currently pursuing a doctorate in public administration, Shaibu is recognized for her grassroots initiatives in Borno State, where she previously led projects focused on healthcare, education, and vocational training.
Her leadership marks the 25th presidency of NAOWA, an organization that plays a key role in supporting military families across Nigeria through humanitarian outreach and development programs.
Outgoing president Oluyede reflected on her tenure, citing strengthened institutional frameworks and expanded welfare efforts that reached communities nationwide. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged her husband’s support.
Oluyede encouraged NAOWA members to remain united in their mission and reaffirmed continued collaboration among the various service associations to enhance welfare and promote national unity.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of handover documents, presentation of the NAOWA flag, and group photographs symbolizing continuity and shared purpose.
Shaibu’s appointment has drawn praise from military families, association members, and community leaders, who described her as compassionate, visionary, and deeply connected to the realities of military life.
Members of the NAOWA 7 Division Chapter, where she previously served, commended her for completing key projects and enhancing outreach programs. “She’s a builder of legacies,” one member said.
Social media platforms were also flooded with congratulatory messages, with users posting tributes such as “Congratulations Madam President!” and “NAOWA is in safe hands with Safiyyah Shaibu.”
As Nigeria continues to confront security challenges, Shaibu’s leadership is expected to play a vital role in reinforcing the support systems that sustain the country’s armed forces and their families.
