In a colourful show of unity and commitment to healthy living, the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, led a lively aerobic session for wives of military and paramilitary officers at the Aguyi Ironsi Sports Hall, Guards Brigade, Abuja.
By Chimezie Godfrey
In a colourful show of unity and commitment to healthy living, the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, led a lively aerobic session for wives of military and paramilitary officers at the Aguyi Ironsi Sports Hall, Guards Brigade, Abuja.
The early morning event, which drew hundreds of participants from sister associations, blended physical fitness with public health awareness as part of DEPOWA’s ongoing campaign to promote wellness, discipline, and time-consciousness among families of security personnel.
Set against a breezy Abuja morning, the session began with health screenings by stationed medical personnel checking blood pressure and heart rates—an initiative aimed at reinforcing the importance of early detection and regular medical checkups. The health check-in served as a practical follow-up to the previous day’s health talk, which focused on stress management, nutrition, and routine medical care.
Guided by professional fitness instructors, participants engaged in both high- and low-impact aerobic routines. The sports hall pulsed with vibrant music and laughter as women, dressed in bright sportswear, danced and exercised in synchrony.
Speaking after the session, Mrs. Musa urged participants to adopt healthy habits, emphasizing the significance of regular exercise and punctuality.
“Timeliness is as important as the exercise itself,” she said. “We must discard the culture of lateness. Arriving early shows discipline, respect for others’ time, and ensures you get the full benefit of these initiatives.”
To reward early birds, DEPOWA distributed yoga mats to the first 100 women who arrived before 7:00 a.m., reinforcing the message of consistency and dedication.
“This is not just a token,” Mrs. Musa explained, “it is a recognition of your discipline, and I hope it inspires others.”
She also noted that many regular participants have reported health improvements such as lower blood pressure and better sleep.
The event enjoyed wide institutional support with key figures in attendance, including Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), who praised the initiative as a “powerful tool for physical and social well-being.” She commended DEPOWA for sustaining the momentum and encouraged more inter-agency collaboration.
Also present was Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), who urged husbands to support their spouses’ participation.
“When a woman is healthy, the entire home benefits,” she said. “We need the encouragement of our spouses to stay consistent on this journey.”
Representing the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) was Mrs. Rukaiya Ladle, while Mrs. Charity Adjaye, wife of the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), also graced the event—signifying cross-agency solidarity in championing health and wellness.
Each participant received a green fruit pack and bottled water, further underscoring DEPOWA’s message on nutrition and hydration.
As the women dispersed with smiles and group photos, the message of the day echoed clearly: health is wealth—and women, especially those supporting Nigeria’s frontline officers, must lead by example in nurturing both their physical and mental well-being.