By; SÀDIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri In line with the vision of the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), M
By; SÀDIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri
In line with the vision of the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, the NAOWA 7 Division Chapter has successfully commemorated World Mental Health Day, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the International Day of the Girl Child through a well-organized two-day event in Maiduguri.
The programme, which took place from October 10 to 11, 2025 at the NAOWA Secretariat, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri Borno State, featured series of impactful lectures delivered by seasoned professionals.
A statement issued and signed by Haruna Mohammed Sani
Lieutenant Colonel, the
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 7 Division, Nigerian Army and made available to newsmen on Saturday, said that these sessions focused on mental health, breast cancer awareness, and the empowerment of the girl child, critical areas affecting women and girls across Nigeria.
Delivering keynote address, the Special Guest of Honour, Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, M and Commander Sector 1, Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, emphasized the Nigerian Army’s commitment to mental health support.
He noted that the Army has prioritized the deployment of trained psychologists to its medical facilities to ensure personnel receive the best psychological care needed to carry out their duties effectively.
Brigadier General Unachukwu also spoke to the growing emotional and social pressures within society, highlighting the importance of mental health services to the barracks community.
He encouraged women, especially within the barracks community, to embrace regular medical checkups for the early detection and management of breast cancer and other health challenges—stressing that good health is a prerequisite for a fulfilling and productive life.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Onyinye Unachukwu, Chairperson, NAOWA 7 Division Chapter, stressed the importance of prioritizing both physical and mental well-being.
She urged women to cultivate healthy lifestyles and self-respect, reinforcing that dignity is key to earning a lasting societal recognition.
“Breast cancer awareness reminds us to care for our bodies through regular screenings, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and managing our weight,” she said .
“However, just as we prioritize physical health, our mental and emotional well-being must also not be neglected.”
“Access to Mental Health Services in Catastrophes and Emergencies” by Major Lateef Ayoade, Clinical Psychologist, 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
“Understanding Breast Cancer” by Dr. Naomi Fali Bulum, who provided in-depth guidance on prevention, early signs, and available treatments.
“The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontline of Crisis” by Mrs. Oluwanishola Benjamin, in recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child, which inspired girls to recognize their potential and leadership roles in times of crisis.
The event featured the following thought-provoking lectures:
The programme concluded with breast examination for interested women by Dr Naomi Fali Bulum, distribution of relief materials, food items and dignity kits including sanitary pads and roll-ons to girls (students of command Day Secondary Scool) within the barracks community. Palliatives such as bags of rice were also shared, along with welfare packages presented to teachers of the NAOWA Model Nursery and Primary School, all within Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
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