Architect Rakiya Abubakar, a visionary leader dedicated to community service, has marked a year of remarkable achievements as the National President of the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA). Since her appointment in June 2023, Mrs. Abubakar has initiated numerous projects that have significantly improved the lives of military families and the broader community. Established over five decades ago, NAFOWA’s mission is to serve humanity, and under Mrs. Abubakar’s leadership, this mission has soared to new heights.
Education and Empowerment
In her first year, Mrs. Abubakar has made significant strides in education and empowerment. She established the NAFOWA Secondary School and NAFOWA Little Angels School in Asokoro, Abuja, providing quality education to the children of military personnel and underprivileged families. She introduced refresher training for teachers, ensuring high standards of education, and equipped schools with modern laboratories and industrial machines for practical skills training.
Notably, coding and robotics programs were launched at NAFOWA Little Angels School in Kaduna, and a free boot camp was introduced at NAFOWA Secondary School in Asokoro, marking a significant leap towards modern education.
Skills Acquisition and Economic Empowerment
Mrs. Abubakar has been instrumental in implementing extensive skills acquisition programs, benefiting over 300 dependents with training in trades such as catering, event decoration, soap making, embroidery, and tailoring. These programs enhance economic independence and self-sufficiency. Recently, over 150 individuals graduated from a skills acquisition program that included training in farming, catering, soap making, and food processing.
Additionally, free skills acquisition training for over 200 women, including widows and NAFOWA members, has further empowered them economically. The NAFOWA Vocational Centre in Ikeja has seen significant enhancements under Mrs. Abubakar’s leadership, ensuring high-quality training and support for its beneficiaries.
Healthcare Initiatives
NAFOWA’s healthcare initiatives under Mrs. Abubakar’s leadership have been exemplary. She organized a cancer walk, lecture, and sensitization at NAF Base Asokoro, followed by a week-long free cancer screening for members of various associations and the general public. This effort significantly raised awareness and provided essential healthcare services to those in need.
In a notable humanitarian outreach at Ungogo LGA, Kano State, 106 persons living with disabilities received food items and tricycle wheelchairs. Mrs. Abubakar also facilitated the Renewed Hope Initiative, granting N250,000 each to 187 Nigerian Air Force widows and orphans, providing essential financial support.
Infrastructural Developments
Under Mrs. Abubakar’s tenure, NAFOWA has seen substantial infrastructural enhancements. New constructions include the NAFOWA secretariat Multi-purpose Hall and the renovation of a Shopping Complex in Ikeja, Lagos, with the installation of a 65KVA generator. Another multi-purpose hall in Port Harcourt was also overhauled, enhancing community engagement and commerce.
Additionally, Mrs. Abubakar implemented a 100% increase in NAFOWA supervisors’ allowances to cushion the effects of subsidy removal.
Strengthening Partnerships
A crucial aspect of Mrs. Abubakar’s achievements has been fostering a strong relationship between NAFOWA and the Nigerian Air Force, ensuring continued support and collaboration. This partnership underscores the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving the association’s goals.
A Vision for the Future
Through these dedicated efforts, Mrs. Abubakar has demonstrated a profound commitment to enhancing the welfare of NAFOWA members and the broader community. Her significant contributions in education, empowerment, and healthcare over the past year have made a remarkable difference in the lives of many. Mrs. Abubakar’s leadership has not only brought about transformative changes but has also set a solid foundation for continued progress.
As NAFOWA looks to the future, Mrs. Abubakar’s vision and leadership serve as a guiding light, ensuring that the association continues to fulfill its mandate and mission of service to humanity. Her significant contributions over the past year have set a precedent for future initiatives, paving the way for further advancements and the continued empowerment of the Nigerian Air Force community and beyond.
For more information on Rakiya Abubakar’s impactful initiatives and how to support NAFOWA, visit the NAFOWA official website and follow their social media channels for the latest updates.
