The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Minna Chapter, has marked the 2025 International Women’s Day with a call for action on promotion of gender equality and advocating for the rights of women and girls.

The event, themed “Accelerate Action”, was held on Saturday, 22 March, 2025 at the Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Multipurpose Hall in Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA) Officers’ Mess Minna Military Cantonment.

The theme for the year served as a powerful call to break barriers, challenge gender biases, and foster opportunities for women’s empowerment.

Speaking at the event, the Commander, TRADOC, Major General Kevin Aligbe who was the Special Guest of Honour (SGoH), stressed the need to recognise and support the invaluable contributions of women to the society.

Maj Gen Aligbe, who was represented by the Director of Training, TRADOC NA, Brigadier General Bede Amakor, noted that while significant progress had been made towards gender equality, there was still much work to be done in advocating for the rights of women and girls.

He highlighted issues such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and reproductive rights, urging collective action to create a safer and more inclusive society.

Speaking on the year’s version of the event which focused on cancer awareness, Maj Gen Aligbe stressed the importance of early detection and accessible healthcare.

He urged participants to take advantage of medical check-ups and government initiatives aimed at combating the disease.

The Commander TRADOC emphasised that cancer is not just a medical issue but a personal and emotional journey that requires compassion, awareness, and support.

Addressing the challenges faced by military families, Maj Gen Aligbe praised the resilience of army wives, particularly those whose spouses were deployed in various operational theatres.

He reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of personnel and their families, citing the recent renovation of accommodation blocks as part of efforts to enhance their living conditions.

He encouraged the women to maintain their homes as places of peace and support for their husbands and children.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Coordinator of NAOWA Minna Chapter, Mrs. Iyabode Victoria Aligbe, reinforced the theme of “Accelerate Action” as a driving force behind women’s empowerment.

Mrs Aligbe called on women to remain steadfast in their quest for equality and to continue pushing for greater access to education, leadership, and healthcare.

She commended NAOWA for its role in fostering a supportive environment for women within the military community, urging members to keep advocating for change.

The event featured lectures, discussions, and awareness campaigns, fitness road walk and medical outreach leaving participants inspired to push for meaningful change in their communities.

The event also underscored the crucial role of women in shaping a brighter future and ensuring a more equitable world for all.

In attendance at the event were participants from TRADOC NA, 31 Artillery Brigade Minna and 313 Artillery Regiment Minna.

Equally, members of NAOWA, Nigerian Army Soldiers ‘ Wives Association (NASWA), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Minna Military Cantonment were all in attendance at the event.