NOWA President visits Western Naval Command, reaffirms welfare support for personnel families

By Abigail Odubela

The Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening welfare support for naval personnel families as the Western Naval Command intensifies maritime security operations across Lagos and adjoining waterways.

The NOWA President, Hajia Aisha Idi Abbas, made the commitment on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Abdullahi Mustapha, where she commended the Command’s support for the association and its welfare initiatives.

Abbas said the visit was aimed at appreciating the Command’s contributions and reinforcing collaboration to improve the well-being of naval personnel and their families.

She noted that despite operating as a non-governmental and non-profit organisation, NOWA remained committed to providing support systems that promote unity, resilience and development within the naval community.

“We recognise the relentless dedication and sacrifices that the personnel of this command make In safeguarding our nation’s maritime interest. Your commitment to excellence and service is commendable and we remain resolute
in supporting the families of our personnel recognising the vital role they play in upholding the spirit of unity and resilience within the naval community, ” she said.

Responding, Rear Adm. Mustapha said the Command has strengthened its operational strategy through a “four-D doctrine” focused on detecting, deterring, disrupting and denying criminal activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He disclosed that the Command has increased surveillance and deployed smaller vessels across creeks and lagoons in Lagos, including the Badagry axis, to curb smuggling and other illegal activities.

According to him, the Command is also leveraging technology, including the Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capability systems, to enhance intelligence-driven operations.

Mustapha added that the Command had prioritised community engagement, working with local leaders and conducting medical outreach programmes to build trust and discourage criminal activities.

He described NOWA as a critical partner in ensuring operational success, noting that its role in supporting families helps maintain stability on the home front.

“An unstable home front would not translate to effectiveness at sea. The support from NOWA has contributed significantly to our ability to carry out our mandate,” he said.

The FOC assured the association of continued support and closer collaboration to enhance its welfare and empowerment programmes.

The NOWA President also visited the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT where she was received by the Commander, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams- Aliu.

The visit also featured the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed Officers’ Mess and Boat Club aimed at enhancing welfare and recreational facilities within the command.