Air Chief Harps on Honouring Fallen Heroes as NAFOWA Distributes Palliatives to Widows
By Lawrence Audu
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has emphasized the duty of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to ensure that the sacrifices of those who gave their lives in defense of the nation are never forgotten.
Speaking at the NAF Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) Medical and Humanitarian outreach programme in Abuja on March 16, 2023, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the importance of honouring the fallen heroes.
During the event organized for widows of deceased NAF personnel at NAF Base in Asokoro, Abuja, the CAS expressed, “In moments like these, we recall those who have paid the ultimate price in the service of our fatherland. While we pray for the continued peaceful repose of their gentle souls, we are duty-bound to ensure that their contributions and supreme sacrifices will never be in vain.”
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Air Marshal Abubakar also called upon individuals and organizations to support widows of deceased personnel and those in need of assistance, particularly women, children, and the less privileged in society. He emphasized the importance of reaching out to those who require help to ensure that they are not neglected.
The NAFOWA Medical and Humanitarian outreach programme provided a platform to acknowledge the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their families. Air Marshal Abubakar’s message serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to honour and support those who have given their lives for the country’s defense.
Speaking further, the CAS noted that as part of measures to support families of fallen heroes and wounded warriors, the NAF has instituted a Group Personal Accident Insurance policy in addition to the Ministry of Defence insurance policy. According to him, “The Policy insures our personnel against accidents, injuries and deaths whenever such tragedies occur, so that they can confidently perform their duties knowing that their healthcare and welfare have been fully taken care of.” Similarly, the CAS continued, children of all personnel who die in active service are entitled to NAF Educational Sponsorship up to tertiary level. He then advised widows to take advantage of the policy for the education of their children. “Rest assured that the Nigerian Air Force will continue to honour the memories of our departed colleagues and take care of their families as much as possible,” he stated.
Earlier, the National President of NAFOWA, Architect (Mrs) Rakiya Abubakar underscored the unwavering commitment of the Association to uphold the welfare and well-being of NAF personnel and their families. She also stated that the outreach specifically targeted 100 widows of NAF Fallen Heroes with offers of free medical checkups, essential services, and provisions including food items and a cash donation. This gesture, according to her, serves as a poignant reminder of NAFOWA’s unwavering support for these brave women, which also tallies with the mission of NAFOWA, which is, Service to Humanity. She emphasized the importance of collective action in creating positive change and urged individuals and organizations to join hands with NAFOWA in its endeavors to uplift and empower those in need. She expressed gratitude to all partners, volunteers, and supporters for their invaluable contributions, reaffirming NAFOWA’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the less fortunate across Nigeria. Mrs Abubakar also revealed that NAFOWA has, in the last month, distributed wheelchairs and food items in Kano and conducted medical outreaches in Enugu and these efforts have so far impacted the lives of over 1,350 individuals.
The event had in attendance senior officers from NAF headquarters as well as representatives of various women organizations drawn from the Armed Forces and para-military organizations.
