NAF @ 60: NAFOWA Holds Mental Health Walk And Talk

…emphasises on critical part of living healthy, fulfilling life

By Anthonia N Okwuolise, Abuja

Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) on Saturday, 18 May 2024, held a mental health, talk and wellness ‘walk programme, in Abuja

This is part of the programme to commemorate NAF at 60 anniversary celebrations.

The awareness programme was organised by the wife of Chief of Air Staff, Arc. Mrs. Abubakar, which she described as a critical part of healthy and fulfilled life.

In her speech, she said, “today we come together to raise awareness on mental health, as well as, embrace and promote conversation around the issue.

“Our carefully selected theme; ‘step by step embracing mental wellness through movement’ was coined to buttress the pertinent of mental health and advocate for mental wellness through fitness.”

She noted that mental and talk gave opportunity to change the narrative and to start important conversation about mental health, saying that the event provided an avenue to de- stigmatize mental health patients and to rally together in support of those who may be struggling with their mental health.

In an interview with the journalist, Mrs Abubakar disclosed that collaborating with an NGO to make sure the lives of serving and fallen officers wives are being carried along in the empowerment programme.

Speaking was the special guest of honour, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu CON, ably represented by the wife of Minister of state for Defence, Mrs. Aisha Metawale who said the resource person spoke so well that their lives have been enriched.

She congratulated the Nigerian Air Force on attaining 60 years of service and dedication to protecting the nation’s skies and ensuring national security.

She said ” I particularly facilitate with the Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA), the true heros behind the scenes. Thank you for serving as a pillar of strength for Air Force families and championing the well – being of your spouses and the wider community”.

She said that two days ago, “we concluded the high level registrational seminar in promoting Cancer Awareness and Advocacy programme for the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and one of the major highlights and the right to maintaining healthy lifestyle choice was highly recommended.

” Step by step embracing mental wellness through movement and the exercise today is timely.

“Regular exercise does not just tone our muscles and boost energy levels. It is a potent tool for mental well – being.

“By prioritizing our well- being, we become not just healthier individuals, but better wives, mothers and role models for our children when we feel physically and mentally strong.

“We can handle challenges of life with greater resilience and radiate positive energy that uplifts those around us. Taking care of ourselves is not selfish, it’s essential to our general well – being,” she said.

Dignataries at the event include the President Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Musa, other members of DEPOWA, President Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs. Maria Lagbaja, other members of NAOWA, President of Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), Mrs. Egbetogun, as well as members of POWA, and wives of service chiefs wives, with their members.