The Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Western Naval Command, marked Valentine’s Day by visiting several hospitals and distributing essential items to patients in Lagos. The initiative, led by the NOWA Coordinator in Lagos State, Mrs. Josephine Oamen, aimed to extend love and support to the sick and needy on this special occasion.

The hospitals visited included the Navy Reference Hospital in Ojo, Obisesan Naval Medical Centre in Apapa, and the Naval Dockyard Medical Centre in Victoria Island. Items distributed to patients included toiletries, bed sheets, mop buckets, mop sticks, soaps, and other provisions to make their day memorable.

Speaking during the visit, Oamen emphasized that the gesture was inspired by the directive of the NOWA President, Mrs. Ijeoma Ogalla, wife of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla. She noted that Valentine’s Day is globally recognized as a day of love and that the association chose to demonstrate this by reaching out to those in need. She stressed that beyond medical treatment, love and emotional support play a crucial role in recovery.

In her message to youths, Oamen urged them to avoid activities that could lead them into trouble while celebrating Valentine’s Day. She advised against indulging in alcohol or making decisions that contradict the values instilled by their parents, encouraging them to remain chaste and share love in meaningful ways with their families, friends, and society.

Commander of the Obisesan Naval Medical Centre, Surgeon Commander Chidebere Anyanwu, expressed appreciation for NOWA’s kind gesture, stating that such acts of love help uplift the spirits of patients and contribute positively to their healing process.

He encouraged more of such visits in the future, recognizing the impact of emotional and psychological support on recovery.

The initiative by NOWA reflects its commitment to humanitarian service, reinforcing the importance of love, care, and community support, especially for those in vulnerable conditions.