No fewer than 100 widows and wives of lower cadre police officers on Monday received food items and cash support as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day in Gombe State.
The gesture was organised by the Police Officers’ Wives Association to support families of serving and fallen officers in line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, highlights the achievements of women and calls for stronger actions to advance gender equality and women’s rights globally.
Items distributed to the beneficiaries included pasta, rice and sugar, alongside a cash gift of N5,000 each.
Speaking during the distribution, the Secretary of POWA in the state, Damaris James, said the initiative was aimed at showing solidarity and appreciation to widows of fallen officers and wives of personnel whose earnings are limited.
She said, “We have widows among us and we also have wives of officers whose salaries are really low. We brought them here to show them that we care.
“These food items are just a token to show that we appreciate them and to support the wives of our fallen heroes.”
James noted that the role of women in supporting their husbands, particularly those serving in security agencies, cannot be overemphasised.
According to her, the productivity and dedication of officers are often influenced by the level of peace and support they receive at home.
“When you see officers who are happy, it is because of the peace they enjoy at home. As wives, we are behind their progress,” she said.
She called on citizens and government at all levels to continue supporting security personnel in their efforts to safeguard lives and property.
“I call on the citizens and the government to continue supporting our husbands in doing their work, which is to provide the needed security. You know that no one can perform effectively on an empty stomach,” she added.