By Nkechi Eze
In a time where stress-related illnesses and sedentary lifestyles are increasingly taking a toll on individuals and families across the country, especially among women playing dual roles in military and domestic spheres, the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) is stepping up with a proactive and holistic wellness campaign. With the growing awareness that physical and mental wellbeing are crucial to family stability and national service support structures, DEPOWA has launched consistent health-focused initiatives to empower its members, many of whom are women juggling responsibilities as mothers, wives, career professionals, and emotional anchors for their families.
At the forefront of this wellness drive is the DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, who has continued to champion accessible and enjoyable ways to promote healthy living. In a spirited call to action during the association’s monthly health program, Mrs. Oghogho urged Defence and Police Officers’ wives to embrace dance as a sustainable form of physical activity that offers immense benefits beyond fitness.
Speaking under the theme “Dance to Destress,” Mrs. Oghogho addressed members who had gathered for the session despite persistent rainfall, a gesture she commended. “Let me start by appreciating all of you for making out time to come,” she said. “It’s raining, and you still put it upon yourself to be here this morning. That shows great dedication.”
She noted that consistent physical movement whether walking, running, or dancing has the power to keep the body agile, improve overall health, and reduce the risk of common illnesses. “Like we said the last time we met, any physical activity that will help us stay active and keep away little and other diseases will continue to be part of our routine,” she stated.
Mrs. Oghogho highlighted the unique value of dance as an inclusive and stress-relieving activity. “That is why we are taking this to the level of dancing,” she noted. “I believe that we all enjoyed today’s activity. If you cannot run, if you cannot walk, you can dance to keep active.”
She further encouraged members to integrate dance into their daily lives, even from the comfort of their homes. “Play music, move your body, record and share your progress, thirty minutes, one hour and you will begin to see results,” she advised. “Staying active cannot be over-emphasized. It will do you good. It will do your body good. And remember, when you do this, you are investing in the future. The Lord will keep you strong and healthy to keep being active.”
Going beyond movement, Mrs. Oghogho also touched on dietary choices, urging participants to eat mindfully and nutritiously. She reminded them that “you are what you eat,” reinforcing the link between proper nutrition and overall wellness.
Adding medical insight to the session, the Chairperson of DEPOWA’s Medical and Sports Committee, Dr. Juliet Ango, emphasized the importance of intentional stress management through physical activity. Speaking to journalists, Dr. Ango explained that prolonged stress can lead to serious health problems such as hypertension, back pain, anxiety, and in extreme cases, sudden death.
“When you’re dancing, you’re having fun, keeping fit, and burning fat all at once,” she said. “It doesn’t feel like exercise, but it works.” Dr. Ango noted that military wives, in particular, face unique challenges given the emotional and logistical demands of their households. “We wear many caps,” she said. “To hold the home front and do all we need to, we must stay active and strong.”
She also pointed out that dancing not only supports physical health but contributes significantly to mental clarity and emotional balance. “Physical activities like dancing help release tension, improve mood, and boost mental alertness. DEPOWA has created platforms for members to engage in daily fitness routines and track their progress collectively.”
The event featured group dancing, wellness tips, and interactive peer engagements, all structured to create an atmosphere of fun, connection, and empowerment. For many attendees, it was not just a health program, but a source of renewed energy and inspiration.
The session concluded with a collective recommitment to continue dance-based routines, adopt healthier habits, and use online platforms to inspire and motivate others. Mrs. Oghogho’s closing remarks resonated deeply: “Let’s keep dancing and let’s keep being active.”
DEPOWA’s health initiative reflects a growing understanding that wellness is foundational, not just for the individual, but for the strength of families, communities, and by extension, national resilience. Through simple but intentional actions, the association is helping its members reclaim vitality and joy, one dance step at a time.
