NIGERIA: Wife Of Chief Of Army Staff, Safiyyah Becomes 25th NAOWA President

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) on Saturday, November 1, 2025, witnessed a smooth transition of leadership as Mrs. Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu officially assumed office as the 25th President of the Association. She succeeded Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, following a formal handing-and-taking-over ceremony held at the NAOWA National Secretariat in Asokoro, Abuja.

The development was announced in a statement signed by Major Ayobami Oni-Orisan, Liaison Officer of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

According to the statement, the colourful event marked the end of Mrs. Oluyede’s distinguished tenure, during which she championed humanitarian causes, empowerment programmes, and institutional reforms within the Association.

In her valedictory remarks, Mrs. Oluyede expressed profound gratitude to God for the grace to serve and commended her husband, General O.O. Oluyede, for his unwavering support as Chief of Army Staff and now Chief of Defence Staff. She thanked NAOWA members nationwide for their loyalty and dedication to the Association’s mission.

Highlighting her leadership theme, “Enhancing Humanity Through a Steadfast Commitment to Unity, Service, and Preservation of Enduring Legacies,” the outgoing President listed some of her administration’s key achievements, including sustainable welfare projects, women and youth empowerment initiatives, and strengthened institutional structures.

Mrs. Oluyede assured members that in her new capacity as President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), she would continue to promote compassion, empowerment, and unity across the Armed Forces community.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu expressed appreciation to Almighty God for the opportunity to serve and paid glowing tribute to her predecessor for her exemplary leadership. She pledged to consolidate on the existing gains and ensure the continued welfare and empowerment of army families.

“Your leadership has been exemplary, and we remain grateful for your dedication and service to NAOWA. You have laid a strong foundation, and I am committed to building upon it with sincerity, vision, and dedication,” she said.

The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the outgoing Deputy President NAOWA, Mrs. Bilkisu Ibrahim; wives of Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters; wives of Corps Commanders; NAOWA Chairpersons and Coordinators; members of the 39 Regular Course Angels and 41 Regular Course Rubies; as well as heads of NAOWA establishments in Abuja.

Key highlights included the signing of the handing-and-taking-over documents, presentation of the NAOWA flag, and a group photograph session to commemorate the transition.

Mrs. Shaibu, a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Forensic Accountant currently pursuing a PhD in Public Administration, brings to her new role a blend of professional expertise and passion for humanitarian service. Her previous leadership roles within NAOWA in Monguno, Bama, and Maiduguri were marked by community empowerment, educational support, and infrastructural development initiatives.

With a reputation for integrity, compassion, and inclusiveness, Mrs. Shaibu’s emergence is expected to usher in a new phase of continuity, unity, and growth for NAOWA and its nationwide network of members.