By Our Reporter
The Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, on Friday distributed foodstuffs, cash, clothing and gift items to widows, magajiyas and children as part of the Brigade’s End-of-Year Luncheon, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to troop welfare and families of fallen heroes.
The event, held at the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) Primary School, Ekehuan Cantonment, Benin City, brought together widows of deceased personnel, women leaders (magajiyas) and children for a day of support, celebration and solidarity.
Balogun said the gesture aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Soldiers First Concept, stressing that welfare remains a critical pillar of morale, discipline and operational effectiveness.
“While we celebrate the yuletide, we must remember those whose husbands paid the supreme price in defence of our nation. This luncheon is to let the widows and their children know that the Nigerian Army has not forgotten them.
“The initiative underscores the Army’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by fallen soldiers and the enduring responsibility to care for their families,” he said.
The Special Guest of Honour, the Director, Military Hospital Benin (MHB), Brig.-Gen. Paulina Aburime, commended the Brigade Commander for the initiative, describing it as a compassionate and exemplary gesture.
“I have seen you reach out to the widows and the children. This is something we should continue and emulate. The love and unity in Ekehuan Cantonment is a beautiful thing,” she said.
Some beneficiaries, including Mrs. Umar Abdulrashid-Eleshi and Mrs. Queen Obazuwa, expressed gratitude to the Brigade Commander, urging sustained support for widows and their children.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of food items, clothing and cash to 50 widows and six magajiyas, while children received gift items and took part in fun activities and competitions, with outstanding participants rewarded.
The luncheon capped the Brigade’s end-of-year activities aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and promoting inclusive welfare within the cantonment.
