By Nkechi Eze
The Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) has once again reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Nigerian troops in the frontline, assuring them that their wives remain steadfast, prayerful, and united as they hold the home front while their husbands and loved ones defend the nation.
This assurance was given by the President of DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, during a fitness and wellness exercise held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the DEPOWA School, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja. The event brought together wives of officers and men of the Armed Forces and Police in an atmosphere of enthusiasm, unity, and shared commitment to healthy living.
Addressing the participants, Mrs. Musa praised the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces, describing them as “the true heroes of national security, whose bravery and commitment continue to preserve the peace and territorial integrity of Nigeria.” She said the patriotism, resilience, and sense of duty demonstrated by troops in the face of grave danger remain a source of pride and inspiration to their families and the entire nation.
“We see you, we salute you, and we thank you for the selfless sacrifices you make daily to keep our country safe,” she declared. “Thank you for staying awake so that we can sleep peacefully. Your wives are standing strong at home, keeping the family and the home front stable while praying for your safety and success. We are proud of you and continue to lift you up in prayers, trusting God for your safe return.”
Mrs. Musa also reaffirmed DEPOWA’s commitment to complementing the efforts of the Armed Forces through initiatives that enhance the welfare, morale, and resilience of military and police families. She acknowledged the invaluable collaborative efforts of sister associations, including the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), and Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), in supporting families across the security services.
The fitness exercise, which kicked off at 6:30 a.m., featured invigorating aerobic sessions, dance routines, and wellness talks on nutrition and lifestyle choices. Participants celebrated not just physical exercise but the collective spirit of wellness, unity, and empowerment.
Commending the women for their dedication to fitness, Mrs. Musa reminded them that good health is fundamental to building stronger, more productive families. “Every time you move your body, you are investing in your life and your future,” she said. “The healthier you are, the wealthier, happier, and more productive you become.”
She explained that true wellness extends beyond physical activity and is significantly influenced by dietary choices. According to her, “to live a healthy and balanced life, 70 percent depends on your diet while 30 percent comes from exercise.”
In her wellness counsel, Mrs. Musa urged participants to embrace healthier eating habits by consuming more fruits, vegetables, and proteins while cutting down on carbohydrate intake and completely avoiding carbonated drinks. She noted that DEPOWA’s consistent tradition of serving only fruits and water at its events is a deliberate initiative to promote healthy living and discourage sugary beverages.
The event concluded on a joyous note as women expressed excitement over their renewed energy and improved health. It also reinforced DEPOWA’s broader mission of championing wellness, fostering unity, and empowering the families of military and police personnel, while offering unflinching moral support to troops on the frontline.
Mrs. Musa congratulated all participants for their resilience and dedication, restating that DEPOWA under her leadership would continue to uphold the ideals of strength, solidarity, and service.
“Together, we will keep supporting our husbands and sons, standing by them as they defend our nation, while we nurture healthier and stronger families at home,” she said.
