The President, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) Dr Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu has charged graduands of the Batch 1 NAOWA Youth Empowerment Project 2026 to translate the skills and knowledge acquired during their training into sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship and meaningful contributions to national development.
This was contained in a statement signed by Captain Jemila Jimoh,Liaison Officer Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association Issued to newsmen.
Dr Safiyyah gave the charge during the combined graduation ceremony of Batch 1 trainees in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Fashion Design held alongside the unveiling of the NAOWA Delight Bakery and NAOWA Stitches and Designs.
The ceremony, which marked another milestone in the empowerment drive of NAOWA under the leadership of Dr Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu brought together senior military officers, members of sister associations, NAOWA stakeholders, guests, facilitators, instructors, graduands and well-wishers.
In her opening remarks, the President NAOWA expressed gratitude to Almighty God and described the occasion as a significant milestone in the journey of the Association, noting that the event was not only about celebrating the successful completion of training by the first batch of ICT and Fashion Design trainees but also about witnessing the unveiling of facilities designed to transform skills into practical opportunities.
According to her, the initiative is anchored on her vision to build a united and innovative NAOWA that empowers military families through self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods. She added that every initiative of the Association is guided by the commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerian Army families and the communities they serve.
Dr Safiyyah noted that the 192 graduands represented a promising generation whose potential, if properly nurtured, could make meaningful contributions to the nation. She observed that while digital technology continues to redefine industries and create new opportunities, the fashion industry remains a vibrant sector capable of promoting creativity, entrepreneurship and employment.
The President NAOWA further described the newly unveiled NAOWA Delight Bakery and NAOWA Stitches and Designs as tangible expressions of the Association’s commitment to practical skills development, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
She explained that the bakery would serve as a centre for training, employment and income generation, while NAOWA Stitches and Designs would provide a modern environment for creativity, talent development and the transformation of entrepreneurial ideas into viable businesses.
Dr Safiyyah emphasized that the facilities were not merely physical structures, but enduring investments in people, innovation and the future of military families. She added that the facilities would complement the objectives of the NAOWA Youth Empowerment Project by providing platforms where beneficiaries could practise, develop and transform their acquired skills into meaningful and sustainable livelihoods.
She expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu represented at the occasion by the Chief of Administration (Army) Major General IM Abdullahi for his unwavering support and commitment to NAOWA programmes and initiatives.
The President also appreciated the Mother of the Day, Mrs Hadiza Bello Danbazau, acknowledged the presence and contributions of the Guest of Honour, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede and the former President of NAOWA, Mrs Salamatu Farouq Yahaya, whose leadership, mentorship and contributions, she noted, had helped lay a solid foundation for the continued growth of the Association.
The Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Administration (Army) Major General IM Abdullahi in his goodwill message commended NAOWA for its sustained commitment to empowering military families and youths through practical skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. He noted that initiatives such as the Youth Empowerment Project and the establishment of the NAOWA Delight Bakery and NAOWA Stitches and Designs were in line with broader efforts to enhance self-reliance, strengthen family welfare and build resilient communities. He congratulated the graduands and urged them to deploy their skills with discipline, creativity and integrity while assuring them of the Nigerian Army’s continued support for initiatives that contribute to the welfare and development of its personnel and families.
The ceremony also featured a colourful cultural dance presentation by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), which added vibrancy and cultural richness to the event.
Guests and dignitaries were thereafter treated to an exhibition showcasing the skills, creativity and products of the graduating trainees. The exhibition provided an opportunity for the graduands to demonstrate the practical knowledge acquired during their training in ICT and Fashion Design.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the NAOWA delight bakery, NAOWA Stitches, presentation of certificates to the successful graduands, presentation of starter packs designed to support them as they commence the next phase of their entrepreneurial and professional journeys.
