By HeapNews
The Nigerian army has donated 20 new motorcycles to women living in Giginya Cantonment in Sokoto State, in a move aimed at supporting small businesses and improving household incomes within the barracks community.
The motorcycles were handed over at the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) Leisure Park by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as part of what he described as a Barracks Women Empowerment Scheme.
Speaking at the ceremony on Monday, the army commander said the initiative was designed to give women greater mobility to support petty trading and other income-generating activities.
“These motorcycles will help our women access markets more easily, manage their logistics and grow their small businesses, both inside and outside the cantonment,” he said. “It reflects the Nigerian army’s commitment to the welfare of our personnel and their families.”
He added that the programme aligns with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff to improve morale and wellbeing among troops and their dependants through practical empowerment initiatives. He also commended women leaders in the cantonment for their role in supporting soldiers and maintaining harmony within the barracks.
Receiving the motorcycles on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Magajiya of Giginya Cantonment, Hajiya Amina Adamu, thanked the army leadership for what she described as a “transformative” intervention.
“This support will make a real difference in the lives of many families,” Adamu said. “We assure you that the motorcycles will be shared fairly and taken care of responsibly.”
The event drew senior military officers, formation commanders, the chairperson of NAOWA in 8 Division, members of the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) and families of serving personnel.
The ceremony ended with a symbolic handover of keys, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs, with organisers describing the donation as a step toward greater economic independence for women in the Giginya barracks.