DEPOWA Launches ‘Thank You To Our Troops’ Campaign To Honour Nigeria’s Heroes
By Ahmed Liman Kingimi, Maiduguri
The Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) has unveiled its inaugural ‘Thank You to Our Troops’ campaign aimed to honor the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military and security personnel, reaffirming their service is deeply valued and never forgotten.
The campaign, which is set to be launched publicly on Tuesday, will span all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory over the next year.
It will feature activities such as school engagements, media campaigns, billboards, documentaries, grassroots mobilization, and direct visits to troops in the field.
Mrs. Lilian Ogogo Christopher Musa, President of DEPOWA, emphasized that the campaign is more than a public gesture—it is a moral duty to uphold the nation’s promise to its defenders.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Babagana Zulum at the Government House in Maiduguri on Monday, she explained that the campaign seeks to recognize the resilience of soldiers fighting at Nigeria’s frontlines, especially in Borno State, the epicenter of the ongoing insurgency.
“This movement is our heartfelt tribute to the bravery of our troops and fallen heroes,” Mrs. Musa stated. “It is a message to our soldiers—and the Nigerian people—that their courage is seen, their service appreciated, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten.”
Mrs. Musa highlighted that no medal or ceremony could truly match the sacrifices made daily by Nigeria’s security forces.
During her visit, she shared her recent experiences with wounded soldiers, observing their scars and hearing their unwavering determination to return to duty despite injuries. “These heroes inspire us all,” she said. “We want Nigerians to send personal thank-you messages—written, audio, or video—to remind our troops that their efforts are recognized and appreciated.”
Commending Governor Zulum’s steadfast support for the armed forces, Mrs. Musa praised his leadership in championing initiatives that aid widows, orphans, and displaced communities affected by insurgency.
Zulum, in turn, pledged his unwavering support for wounded soldiers and the families of fallen heroes.
“I am committed to supporting those who are wounded in action and the families of those who lost their lives,” Governor Zulum affirmed. “My doors are open for partnership to ensure these brave men and women feel a sense of belonging and support.”
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by troops in displaced communities such as Baga and expressed his commitment to resettling more communities to solidify military gains. Zulum further praised the resilience of the armed forces and the efforts of military leadership in restoring stability across the Northeast.
Mrs. Musa reaffirmed DEPOWA’s dedication to complement government efforts in improving the lives of widows, orphans, youths, and the less privileged both within and beyond military communities.
Highlights of the two-day visit included meetings with the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, and support visits to wounded soldiers at the 7th Division Medical Services Centre and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, among other engagements.