Lagos: The Military and Paramilitary Officers’ Wives Associations and the SHE Safety and Health Initiative (SSHI), a non-governmental organization, have joined forces to enhance women’s health, safety, and empowerment across Nigeria. The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SSHI, Mrs. Mabel Abel-Onaiwu, announced this collaborative effort through a statement issued on Monday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the military and paramilitary associations involved include the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, the Nigerian Navy Officers’ Wives Association, the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre Officers’ Wives Association, and the Police Officers’ Wives Association. Abel-Onaiwu emphasized that this partnership signifies a new phase of women-led transformation in safety and health.
Abel-Onaiwu stated, “Our partnership with the military and police officers’ wives associations reflects a shared vision to see women rise as leaders in safety, advocates for health, and ambassadors of resilience. We are merging discipline with compassion, and training with transformation.” The collaboration will be highlighted during the SHE Summit, scheduled from November 3 to November 8, under the theme: ‘Empowering Her Health, Elevating Her Safety, Amplifying Her Voice.’
The six-day summit, set to coincide with Gender and Safety Week 2025, will take place across various military and police formations in the country beginning November 3. Abel-Onaiwu noted that the event aims to reach over 5,000 women and girls from the armed forces, police, and civil society, providing training in health, safety, leadership, and mentorship.
The summit will feature activities such as first aid, fire safety, and emergency response training, as well as free breast and cervical cancer screenings. Leadership and mentorship forums, along with a nationwide awareness walk focused on women’s health and safety, are also planned. The event will culminate in a leadership summit, conference awards, and a gala night at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Buhari Hall, Oshodi, Lagos.
Abel-Onaiwu mentioned that 40 to 50 outstanding women leaders in health, safety, and humanitarian service will be recognized at the event. Additionally, the ‘SHE Pink Box Initiative’ will be unveiled, offering a dignity and safety box designed for women and girls in schools, military, and civilian communities.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the SHE Summit 2025 aims to build safer families, stronger communities, and a healthier nation by empowering women to take the lead in health and safety advocacy.