The Coordinator of the 119 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) Sokoto State Chapter, Mrs Aisha Shehu, said the huge investment in women through education, leadership and economic opportunities contribute immensely to national development.
Mrs Aisha Shehu stated this at the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration with the theme: ” Give To Gain”, organised by the association at Air Force Base in Sokoto State.
She described the theme as a call to action for collective progress in building strong families, communities, and the nation in general.
Aisha Shehu stressed that empowering women is not merely a slogan, but a necessity for strengthening families, communities and the nation.
“When a woman is supported, a family becomes stronger. When families are strengthened, communities become more resilient. And when communities are resilient, a nation prospers,” she noted.
According to her, the day is globally recognised as a celebration of womanhood and holds special significance for NAFOWA as it provides an opportunity to honour the contributions of its members.
Mrs Shehu reiterated the strength and sacrifices of women within the military community particularly the Nigerian Air force.
” We are not only celebrating women in general; we are celebrating a unique community of women whose lives are closely intertwined with service to the nation,” she said.
The Coordinator commended the wives of service personnel, describing them as the backbone of their homes who sustain stability despite postings and redeployment.
“Your resilience is remarkable, your sacrifices are real, and your contributions to national stability, though rarely publicised, are invaluable,” she added.
Mrs Aisha Shehu also encouraged members to cultivate a culture of mentorship by guiding younger women and girls within their communities.
The NAFOWA Coordinator further thanked the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke and Commander 119 Composite Group, Group Captain Nanle Harry Gumut, for their support to the association.
Delivering a lecture on “Ending Violence and Abuse Against Women and Girls” Mr Rabiu Bello Gandi of Save the Child Initiative emphasised the importance of protecting women’s rights among military.
He also called on households to always understand their emotional issues that would help to address violence and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
He emphasised the urgent need to combat violence and abuse against women and girls particularly among the Nigerian Air Force.
“ensuring the dignity, safety and respect of every woman must remain a priority of every society”, he noted
Rabiu Bello Gandi further explained more instances on violence against women and girls aimed at enlightening members of NAFOWA and promoting safer environments within barracks.
The event featured several engaging activities, including questions and answers, suggestions and contributions among others