By Sumaila Ogbaje
The President, Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Maria Lagbaja, on Wednesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art multipurpose complex built by the Army Headquarters (AHQ) Garrison Chapter, Mambilla Barracks, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the complex which serves as the Secretariat for the NAOWA AHQ Garrison chapter comprises offices, a conference hall, and a vocational training centre.
The edifice was named after the NAOWA President, the wife of Chief of Army staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, as Maria Lagbaja Skills Acquisition Centre.
Lagbaja, in her remarks, said that the complex marked another significant milestone in the advancement of NAOWA.
She said it was also a testament of hard work, dedication and in line with her vision of unwavering commitment to unity and service for the betterment of humanity.
She said the facility would provide the much needed conducive environment, for meetings and gatherings of NAOWA members under the AHQ Garrison.
Lagbaja appreciated the Commander, AHQ Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Koko Isoni, the chapter coordinator and members for their consistent support to the association.
She called on NAOWA members to come up with innovative projects and initiatives that would contribute positively to the growth and development of the association.
The Commander, AHQ Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Isoni, commended NAOWA for the centre and for their commitment to the growth and wellbeing of the widows of fallen heroes, youths and the vulnerable in the Balak community.
He urged them to continue to collaborate with other relevant non-governmental organisations to further develop and enhance capacity building in the barracks and surrounding communities.
“It is our hope and desire that this centre will fulfil the purpose for which it has been established.
“In the light of the above, I wish to reiterate that the AHQ garrison will continue to support the activities and programmes of this noble association that has continued to make us proud, both nationally and internationally,” he said.
The Coordinator of Chapter, Mrs Pearl Isoni, said that the complex was possible because of hard work and the unwavering commitment to the betterment of the barracks community.
She said the centre, as a hub for innovation and creativity, would foster growth, unity, connections, and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential.
“More importantly, this building will act as a catalyst for positive change, providing resources, support and inspiration to all who walk through this door.
“As we stand on the threshold of this new chapter, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, collaboration, and determination that brought us to this moment.
“In commissioning this centre, we are not just opening a door, we are opening endless possibilities for the future of the youths and women, who come here to learn skills to better their lives and our barrack community,” Isoni said. (NAN)