By Nkechi Eze
It was a day of colour, excitement, and inspiration as the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, joined families and dignitaries to celebrate the 2025 Children’s Day at the Defence Intelligence Agency Officers’ Wives Association (DIAOWA) Fun Fair. The event, which took place on Saturday, 24 May 2025, at the DIA Complex in Abuja, was themed “Bright Smile, Brighter Future,” and brought together children, parents, and well-wishers in a joyful celebration of childhood.
The air was filled with cheer as children from various units under the DIA community participated in games, creative activities, and musical performances, all designed to highlight the significance of nurturing the next generation. With decorations, refreshments, and entertainment adding to the festive atmosphere, the Fun Fair created lasting memories for the young ones and their families.
In her opening remarks, the Coordinator of DIAOWA, Mrs. Jane Undiandeye, welcomed guests and underscored the importance of events such as the Children’s Day celebration in reinforcing the value of children to national development. She emphasized the need to nurture children’s unique gifts, build their confidence, and guide them toward becoming productive and responsible adults.
“Children are the future of every nation, and it is our collective duty to create environments that help them discover their purpose. Today’s funfair is not just about fun; it is about inspiring our children to dream big and build a future they can be proud of,” Mrs. Undiandeye stated.
In her goodwill message, the Special Guest of Honour and President of DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, commended DIAOWA for organizing a memorable and impactful event. She expressed joy at being part of the celebration and thanked the organizers for creating a platform where children could freely express themselves through play and creativity.
“This occasion is a beautiful reminder of the joy and innocence that children bring into our lives,” Mrs. Musa remarked. “It is also an opportunity to speak life into them to remind them of the importance of discipline, hard work, and a strong moral foundation. I encourage every child here to cultivate Christ-like values, remain obedient to their parents and teachers, and stay focused on their education. That is the key to a truly brighter future.”
Mrs. Musa also offered prayers for the continued success of the association and its leadership, while urging parents to continue playing active roles in the moral and academic development of their children.
The event was graced by distinguished personalities including the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, represented by Princess Jummai Idonije; senior officials of the Defence Intelligence Agency; members of DEPOWA and DIAOWA; as well as other notable guests from the Armed Forces community.
Highlights of the day included a variety of fun-filled games and competitions, a ceremonial cutting of the Children’s Day cake, dance performances by the children, and a group photograph session that captured the unity and celebratory spirit of the occasion.
As the celebrations came to a close, there was a shared sense of gratitude and hope among attendees. The 2025 DIAOWA Children’s Day Fun Fair stood not just as a moment of laughter and colour, but as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard the dreams and well-being of Nigerian children.
