The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has pledged the Nigerian Navy’s support for the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association
By Sumaila Ogbaje/Kennedy Sheyin
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has pledged the Nigerian Navy’s support for the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) Future Leaders Academy.
He announced that the support would come through the construction of a classroom block to aid the development of the proposed institution.
Ogalla made the pledge when he received the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Musa, and her delegation on a courtesy visit to the Naval Headquarters on Monday in Abuja.
He described DEPOWA’s proposed academy as a visionary initiative that would contribute to education, crime reduction, and national security.
According to him, the plan to offer automatic scholarships to children of fallen heroes is particularly commendable, as it would ease the burden on families that have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
The naval chief also lauded DEPOWA’s “Thank You Our Troops” campaign and its continued investment in school sports competitions, describing them as impactful non-kinetic contributions to national security.
He assured that the Nigerian Navy would continue to support such initiatives, which, he said, complement military operations by boosting frontline morale and constructively engaging the wider society.
“The modern concept of security goes beyond weapons and equipment.
“It includes human security, food security, education, and social welfare. DEPOWA and sister associations remain vital strategic partners in this regard,” Ogalla stated.
He further urged DEPOWA to sustain its collaboration with other service associations in pursuit of the common goal of national peace, unity, and security.
Earlier, Musa said her visit was to brief the CNS on DEPOWA’s “Thank You to Our Troops” campaign.
She explained that it was a 12-month nationwide initiative aimed at honouring the sacrifices, courage, and patriotism of personnel in the Armed Forces and Police.
She explained that the campaign was inspired by countless stories of bravery, such as sailors who spend months at sea, officers confronting oil theft, and families who quietly bear the burden of separation and loss.
According to her, through press engagements, grassroots mobilisation, billboards, and courtesy visits, DEPOWA is rallying Nigerians to show greater appreciation to the country’s security personnel.
Musa also announced the launch of the DEPOWA Future Leaders Academy in Abuja, conceived as a lasting legacy for the children of fallen heroes.
“Scheduled for commissioning in September 2026, the school will provide full scholarships to all qualified children of fallen personnel, while also admitting children from surrounding communities to foster national integration and cohesion,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)