NAOWA 7 Division Champions Women’s Health and Empowerment in Maiduguri, Marks World Mental Health Day, Breast Cancer Awareness, and International Day of the Girl Child
The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) 7 Division Chapter has reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being and empowerment of women and girls through a two-day event in Maiduguri marking the World Mental Health Day, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and International Day of the Girl Child.
Held from October 10 to 11, 2025, at the NAOWA Secretariat, Maimalari Cantonment, the event featured a series of health-focused lectures, interactive sessions, and welfare activities aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being within the barracks community.
Delivering the keynote address, the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Joint Task Force North East (OPHK), Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, emphasized the Nigerian Army’s growing investment in mental health care.
He noted that the Army has continued to deploy trained psychologists across its medical facilities to provide quality psychological support for personnel and their families.
“The emotional and social pressures in today’s society require deliberate mental health interventions,” Brigadier General Unachukwu stated. “We must also encourage regular medical checkups for early detection and management of breast cancer. Good health remains a vital foundation for a fulfilled and productive life.”
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In her opening remarks, Mrs. Onyinye Unachukwu, Chairperson of NAOWA 7 Division Chapter, urged women to cultivate self-respect and balance between physical and mental well-being. “As we raise awareness about breast cancer, let us also remember that mental and emotional health are equally important,” she said, stressing the importance of lifestyle changes and self-care.
The event featured expert-led sessions, including:
“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 practical insights into prevention, early detection, and treatment.
“The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontline of Crisis” by Mrs. Oluwanishola Benjamin, which inspired young girls to embrace leadership and resilience.
The commemoration concluded with free breast examinations, distribution of relief materials and dignity kits (including sanitary pads and roll-ons) to female students of Command Day Secondary School, and palliatives such as rice and welfare packages for teachers of NAOWA Model Nursery and Primary School, all within Maimalari Cantonment.
The initiative reflects the broader vision of the NAOWA President, Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, which prioritizes women’s health, empowerment, and community service as cornerstones of national development.
Lt. Col. Haruna Mohammed Sani
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
7 Division, Nigerian Army
October 11, 2025
