DEPOWA Lights Up Abuja with Heartfelt Children’s Day Celebration, Honours Nigeria’s Future Stars

DEPOWA Lights Up Abuja with Heartfelt Children’s Day Celebration, Honours Nigeria’s Future Stars

By Ayshatu S. Rabo

In a powerful show of unity and love, the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), under the vibrant leadership of its President, Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, hosted a remarkable Children’s Day celebration that resonated far beyond the colorful grounds of Abuja.

The event gathered hundreds of students, military families, educators, and dignitaries in a jubilant and touching ceremony that placed the Nigerian child firmly at the center of national consciousness.

This year’s commemoration was not just about fun it was a stirring reminder of the responsibility every citizen shares in nurturing the dreams of the next generation.

“Children’s Day is not just a date on the calendar,” declared Mrs. Musa in her keynote address.

“It is the celebration of the greatest gift God gives any nation our children.”

Her words, blending humour and depth, set the tone for an uplifting ceremony filled with music, color, culture, and heartfelt reflection.

With a playful smile, she added, “Like for me today, I’m a child. I’m considering myself as a 10-year-old to be able to borrow the wealth of my mother,” drawing laughter and warmth from the crowd.

But beyond the fanfare, Mrs. Musa’s message was crystal clear: DEPOWA’s dedication to children goes far deeper than celebration.

“We don’t just talk about children. We work for their future,” she stated firmly, highlighting DEPOWA’s ongoing efforts to support the education of military children, care for widows and orphans, and create safe spaces for families facing the sacrifices of service.

Turning directly to the children, she offered powerful words of encouragement, “You are smart, you are strong, you are loved. Your dreams are valid. Your voice matters even superheroes need to do their homework.”

She also issued a poignant call to parents and educators, “Let us raise children who are not only educated but empathetic.

How we speak to them becomes their inner voice.”

In a heartfelt tribute to the quiet heroes of society, she praised mothers, teachers, and service members whose daily efforts create a world where children can laugh and dream in safety.

Gratitude flowed as she acknowledged the support of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her leadership through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

She also thanked her husband, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, for his steadfast support.

The celebration was a rich cultural showcase featuring poetry recitations, dance performances, fashion parades, school match-pasts, and cake cutting all reflecting the vibrant potential of Nigeria’s youth.

Children from Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police schools participated in full colors, embodying the unity of military families.

Renowned musician Sunny Neji added star power and inspiration, praising DEPOWA for keeping women and children at the heart of national development.

“Children are the hope of tomorrow,” he said, “and they deserve all the support we can give.”

Mrs. Ipheoma Martins Aligwe, Chair of the 2025 Children’s Day Planning Committee, captured the journey of the event’s preparation with emotion, “This idea blossomed like a flower from a dream eight weeks ago and today, it is a reality.” She extended appreciation to her team, the DEPOWA Secretariat, and all contributors who made the day unforgettable.

ALSO READ: DEPOWA President Celebrates Children’s Day, Hails Next Generation Leaders (Photos)

In every song, every speech, and every child’s smile, this year’s Children’s Day celebration reminded Nigeria of a powerful truth: the future is already here growing, learning, and waiting to be guided with love.

“God bless our children. God bless DEPOWA. God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria. And God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Mrs. Musa concluded, with hands lifted in hope and prayer.

DEPOWA Lights Up Abuja with Heartfelt Children’s Day Celebration, Honours Nigeria’s Future Stars