The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) has established an adult education centre for women within the military barracks in Benin as part of efforts to promote literacy, security awareness, and discipline.
At an International Women’s Day event in Benin, Mrs Akon Oduyebo, Zonal Coordinator, NAOWA 4 Brigade chapter, stressed the importance of literacy for soldiers’ wives to understand military rules, security protocols, and personal development.
“That is why I have opened an adult education centre here. At least, all of us should be able to read and recognise signs.
“Most times, military instructions are clearly written ‘Restricted Area, Keep Off’, but if you can’t read, how will you know?” she said.
She highlighted the structured environment within military barracks, noting that access to the premises was restricted and subject to strict protocols.
She urged military wives to uphold discipline, maintain security consciousness, and support their husbands’ professional obligations.
“As military dependents, we must respect the personnel and facilities of the military.
“You must respect them, whether they are officers or private soldiers, because that is the rule.
“Before you introduce yourself as an officer’s wife, you must first be a disciplined civilian,” she said.
The coordinator also condemned social vices within the barracks, such as drug abuse, theft, and rumour-mongering, warning that perpetrators would face strict military discipline.
Speaking on the theme of the 2025 International Women’s Day, “Accelerate the Actions”, Oduyebo reiterated the need for urgent and concrete steps to advance gender equality.
According to her, while women have made significant progress in leadership, education, and business, persistent challenges such as gender-based violence, unequal pay, and limited access to opportunities continue to hinder progress.
“Change is happening, but we must push for faster, bolder, and more impactful action,” she urged.
She called on policymakers, educators, and community leaders to champion policies that empower women and foster an inclusive society where opportunities are defined by talent and potential, not gender.
“Each of us has a role to play. Let this celebration be a catalyst for action. The time for change is now,” she said.
Also speaking, Brig.-Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo, Commander of the 4 Brigade, called for accelerated efforts to close gender gaps and promote women’s empowerment.
The commander stated that progress towards gender equality remained too slow and called for bold policies and collective action to dismantle barriers holding women back.
“This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, is a call to move beyond discussions and take concrete steps toward gender equality.
“While progress has been made, we must acknowledge that too many barriers still hinder women’s full participation in leadership, economic empowerment, education, and social justice.
“Let us not just celebrate today; let us commit to action, action that accelerates progress, transforms lives, and ensures every woman and girl has the opportunity to achieve her full potential,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured a walk, a drama performance, and lectures on gender-based violence and women’s health awareness, among other activities.
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