.as Over 50 Widows received palliatives at Idiroko Command
ZAINAB JUNAID
No fewer than 54 students with outstanding performance from the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) Secondary, Primary & Nursery schools at Ogun 1 Area Command of the Service, Idiroko, Ogun State bagged education grants from the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA).
This is even as the association under the leadership of it’s National President, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi supported over 50 widows of Customs Officers from the Command with palliatives to improve their livelihoods.
In a statement made available on Saturday by Chief Superintendent of Customs CSC Hameed Oloyede, the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Mrs Kikelomo emphasized that the oversight visit to the Command is to show commitment to the well-being and development of COWA members.
She enjoined all members present at the Command to be firmed in their prayers and continued to support their spouses with strength and courage, as their unwavering support is not just a comfort to them, but a vital source of inspiration that helps the Officers carry out their duties diligently.
In her words, “Today, we gather not only to celebrate the achievements of this chapter but to show solidarity with our officers and their families who bear the weight of this noble duty. As the National President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), I am deeply aware of the unique challenges faced by the families of our customs officers, particularly those stationed in difficult border regions like Idiroko.
“The constant battle against smugglers, traffickers, and criminals often takes a toll not just on the officers but on their families as well.
As wives and mothers, we know firsthand the anxieties, fears, and sacrifices that come with having our loved ones on the frontlines.
“The threat of danger is ever-present, and the pressure on their shoulders can sometimes weigh heavily on us too. But I stand here today to encourage each and every one of you: Remain steadfast. Stay prayerful. Continue to support your husbands with strength and courage. Your unwavering support is not just a comfort to them, but a vital source of inspiration that helps them carry out their duties diligently. Together, as families and as a community, we have a critical role to play in keeping Nigeria safe”.
“I am proud to commission your new projects, award scholarships to the children of some of our officers, and distribute support to the widows of our fallen heroes. These actions reflect COWA’s core values of compassion, solidarity, and empowerment. Our scholarship awards to the children of customs officers symbolize our belief in the power of education as a pathway to a brighter future, while the support to our widows reminds us all that we are one family and will never forget the sacrifices made by our loved ones,” She stressed.
Mrs Kikelomo further advised members to upskill themselves to successfully navigate through complexity of life.
“As COWA members, it is also crucial that we do not rest on our laurels. We must continuously seek ways to improve ourselves, particularly through capacity building. This is a key focus at the national level of COWA, and I encourage each member here at the Ogun 1 Area Command to embrace this as well. Capacity building equips us with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support our families better and contribute meaningfully to our communities. In a developing country like Nigeria, empowering women through education, training, and skills development is not just beneficial — it is essential.
Women who invest in their personal development can better navigate the complexities of modern life, support their children’s education, and even explore opportunities for entrepreneurship and financial independence. Let us not forget that when women grow, families thrive, and societies prosper. I urge this chapter to actively participate in the capacity-building programs we offer and explore new ways of developing your potential,” she maintained.
In her remarks, Chairperson of COWA Ogun I Chapter, Princess Folu-Ojo Adenike highlighted how the association has metamorphosed to a lifeline to the wives, children, and orphans of both serving and fallen officers, under the current administration.
“Your efforts have touched every corner of the nation, and today, we are privileged to experience that firsthand care,” she said.
To her, “As the Chairperson of the COWA Ogun I Chapter, I am proud of the work we have accomplished together. Our mission here is to ensure that the families of Customs officers—both those still in active service and those who have left us—are supported, valued, and cared for. This is not just about duty; it is about compassion, community, and the shared responsibility we have to one another.
“For the families of our fallen heroes, your visit is a beacon of hope and strength. We know that their loss is immeasurable, but COWA’s constant presence in their lives helps to soften that pain. These families are a central part of our community, and we are bound by our commitment to ensure their welfare. Madam President, your dedication to their cause has given them the courage to move forward, knowing that they are never alone.
“As we welcome you today, we also celebrate the strength of the entire COWA Ogun I Chapter. The women here are resilient, supportive, and deeply connected to the values that define our association—solidarity, care, and service. Together, we have worked hard to provide emotional and material support to the families in our command, and your visit today reaffirms our shared mission.
“On behalf of the entire Ogun I Chapter, I want to express our deep appreciation for your leadership and compassion. Your oversight visit today will inspire us to continue working tirelessly for the welfare of all families under our care. We look forward to the guidance and insights you will provide during this visit, and we remain committed to upholding the vision of COWA at all levels,” she concluded.