Correctional Officers’ Wives Elect New Leadership

The Nigerian Correctional Officers’ Wives Association (NICOWA) has concluded its 2025 National Convention, which brought together delegates from all Zones and Commands for deliberations, leadership transition and a celebration of service within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

The Opening Ceremony, held in Abuja on Sunday, was attended by the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, members of the NCoS Management Team and other dignitaries.

In her welcome address, NICOWA National President, Mrs. Victoria Nwakuche, commended delegates for their commitment and stressed the importance of unity, empowerment and sustained support for families in the Correction.

The CG reaffirmed the Service’s support for NICOWA’s welfare and development programmes, noting that “when women come together, great things happen.”

A keynote address delivered by the Guest Speaker, Mrs. Irene Awunah-Ikyegh, on the theme “Women Navigating Modern-Day Pressures: The Role of Women in Tackling Societal Issues.” She urged members to embrace innovation and collaboration to strengthen family support structures within the Correctional community.

In accordance with NICOWA’s constitution, the outgoing National Executive Council was dissolved during the convention.

Delegates elected a new set of National Officers, who were subsequently sworn in to steer the Association’s affairs and expand its impact nationwide.

The Convention, which ended with Gala Dinner, was attended by the Special Guest of Honour, Mrs. Abimbola Tunji-Ojo, wife of the Minister of Interior.

She applauded NICOWA’s commitment to welfare, education and community support, while encouraging the newly elected executives to remain focused on programmes that promote family stability and wellbeing.

The gala featured award presentations to the Special Guest of Honour, the Controller-General of Corrections and members of his Management Team, as well as past NICOWA Presidents.

Representatives from other military and paramilitary officers’ wives associations, including DEPOWA, NAOWA, IMMOWA, ROSOWA and FOWA, were also in attendance.

Delegates from NICOWA Zones and State Chapters presented reports outlining progress made, innovations introduced and areas that require further support to enhance the welfare and empowerment of Correctional officers’ families across the country.