The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 7 Division Chapter, has commemorated World Mental Health Day, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the International Day of the Girl Child through a two-day empowerment and health awareness programme in Maiduguri.
The event, held from October 10–11 at the NAOWA Secretariat, Maimalari Cantonment, featured lectures on mental health, cancer prevention, and girls’ empowerment, aligning with the vision of the NAOWA National President, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede.
Delivering the keynote address, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation Hadin Kai, emphasised the Nigerian Army’s growing commitment to mental health.
“The Army now deploys trained psychologists to its medical facilities to ensure personnel receive quality psychological care,” he said, urging women to embrace regular medical checkups for early detection of diseases such as breast cancer.
In her remarks, Mrs Onyinye Unachukwu, Chairperson of the NAOWA 7 Division Chapter, urged women to prioritise both physical and mental well-being.
“As we promote breast cancer awareness, let us also remember that mental and emotional health are just as vital,” she said.
Lectures during the event included “Access to Mental Health Services in Catastrophes and Emergencies” by Major Lateef Ayoade, Clinical Psychologist, 7 Division Hospital;
“Understanding Breast Cancer” by Dr Naomi Fali Bulum
“The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead” by Mrs. Oluwanishola Benjamin, marking the International Day of the Girl Child.
The programme concluded with free breast examinations, distribution of dignity kits, food items, and palliatives, as well as welfare packages for teachers of the NAOWA Model Nursery and Primary School, Maimalari Cantonment.
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