The Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General A.O. Balogun, on Friday, December 26, 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 Primary School, Ekehuan Cantonment, Benin City. He described welfare as a critical pillar of morale, discipline and operational effectiveness in the Nigerian Army.
In his welcome address, Brigadier General Balogun said the initiative was in line with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu’s Soldiers First Concept. He explained that the luncheon was organized to reassure widows of fallen personnel that the Nigerian Army has not forgotten the sacrifices made by their husbands in the defence of the nation.
According to him, while celebrating the yuletide season, it was important to remember families who felt the pain of loss because their loved ones paid the supreme price. He stressed that the gesture was meant to show solidarity with the widows and their children, and to remind them that the Army and the nation care deeply for them and appreciate the sacrifices of their fallen heroes.
The event was graced by the Director, Military Hospital Benin, Brigadier General Paulina Aburime, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. She commended the Brigade Commander for organizing the luncheon and for putting smiles on the faces of widows and soldiers’ families within the cantonment.
Speaking at the event, Brigadier General Aburime expressed gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, praising the compassion shown to the widows and children. She noted that such gestures promote unity and love within the barracks community and encouraged others to emulate the example set by the Brigade Commander.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Umar Abdulrashid Eleshi and Mrs Queen Obazuwa, also commended Brigadier General Balogun for his kindness and support. Highlights of the event included the presentation of food items, clothing and cash gifts to 50 widows and six magajiyas, while children received gift items, participated in fun activities and competitions, with outstanding participants rewarded.