The President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs. Maria Lagbaja, inaugurated a state-of-the-art multipurpose complex at the Mambilla Barracks in Abuja, on Wednesday.
This facility, built by the Army Headquarters (AHQ) Garrison Chapter, serves as the Secretariat for the NAOWA AHQ Garrison chapter and includes offices, a conference hall, and a vocational training center.
The complex has been named the Maria Lagbaja Skills Acquisition Centre in honor of Mrs. Lagbaja, the wife of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
In her speech, Mrs. Lagbaja highlighted the significance of the new complex, calling it a milestone in NAOWA’s development.
She emphasized that the facility exemplifies hard work, dedication, and aligns with her vision of commitment to unity and service for humanity’s betterment.
She noted that the center would provide a conducive environment for NAOWA members at the AHQ Garrison to hold meetings and gatherings.
Mrs. Lagbaja expressed her gratitude to Maj.-Gen. Koko Isoni, Commander of AHQ Garrison, and the chapter coordinator and members for their unwavering support to the association.
 She encouraged NAOWA members to create innovative projects and initiatives that would contribute to the association’s growth and development.
Maj.-Gen. Isoni praised NAOWA for their efforts in establishing the center and for their dedication to supporting the widows of fallen heroes, youths, and vulnerable individuals in the Balak community.
He urged the association to continue collaborating with other non-governmental organizations to enhance capacity building within the barracks and surrounding areas.
He expressed hope that the center would serve its intended purpose and reaffirmed the AHQ Garrison’s commitment to supporting NAOWA’s activities and programs, recognizing the association’s significant impact both nationally and internationally.
Mrs. Pearl Isoni, the Chapter Coordinator, attributed the success of the complex to the hard work and commitment to improving the barracks community.
She described the center as a hub for innovation and creativity that would foster growth, unity, and connections, empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.
She emphasized that the building would act as a catalyst for positive change, providing resources, support, and inspiration to all who use it.
“As we stand on the threshold of this new chapter, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, collaboration, and determination that brought us to this moment.”
Mrs. Isoni concluded by reflecting on the spirit of unity, collaboration, and determination that led to the center’s creation.
 She stated that the commissioning of the center symbolizes opening doors to endless possibilities for the future of youths and women in the barracks community, enabling them to learn skills that will improve their lives.
