The Chairperson, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) 1 Division Chapter, Mrs Ada Lander Saraso, has called for accelerated action plan towards gender equality and women empowerment. Mrs Saraso made this call during the International Women’s Day 2025 Celebration organized by NAOWA 1 Division Chapter at Salmatu Faruk Yahaya Hall in Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna on Saturday 8th March 2025.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” Mrs Saraso emphasized the need to support rural women, widows of fallen heroes, and disadvantaged girls. She encouraged 1 Division NAOWA Members to empower one another, advocate for women’s rights, and create opportunities for growth.

“As NAOWA and Nigerian Army Soldiers Wives Association (NASWA) Members in 1 Division Chapter, we are not just wives and mothers but pillars of support to our husbands and nation builders as well. We must therefore, empower each other, champion inclusivity, and foster a society where all women can thrive,” she stated.

Mrs Saraso also appreciated the NAOWA President, Mrs Mernan Oluyede, for her unwavering support and guidance to the Members in 1 Division Chapter in their effort towards the achievement of the overall vision of the Association.

As part of the International Women’s Day Celebration activities, Mrs Saraso also hosted a special dinner for wives of senior officers and members of NAOWA 1 Division Chapter at the NAOWA Secretariat in Kaduna. The event also featured a sendforth ceremony for spouses of some retired senior officers in recognition of their dedication and service to the Association.

During the event, the NAOWA 1 Division Chapter Chairperson expressed her gratitude to the senior officers’ wives who honoured the invitation despite their busy schedules. Mrs Saraso commended the retired officers’ wives who included Mrs Rosemary Abdullahi, Mrs Victoria Oriji, Mrs Maria Ali, and Mrs Janeda Mamza, for their contributions to the Chapter during their active service years.

Some notable senior officers wives that attended the dinner included Mrs Nike Omali and Mrs Abisat Abdullahi among several others.

Highlights of the International Women’s Day Celebration activities held by the NAOWA 1 Division Chapter in Kaduna include a morning route march by NAOWA and NASWA Members, keynote lectures from esteemed resource persons, evening dinner, presentation of souvenirs to some retired members, a lively dancing competition, cutting of celebration cake, and group photographs.