The Ex-Mokola Barracks Boys Association (EXMBBA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to giving back to the community, bringing Christmas cheer to widows of slain soldiers at the Mokola, Ibadan Army Barracks.
The organization distributed gifts of cash and other essential items to about 100 widows, who lost their husbands in the course of service to Nigeria during its 6th annual Christmas package distribution.
The event, which took place at 81 Battalion Soldiers’ Club inside the Letmauk Barracks, Ibadan, aimed at rendering financial assistance to widows and children of slain soldiers.
EXMBBA also extended its support to some ex-barracks boys who are facing health and financial challenges.
Chairman of EXMBBA, Hon. Obode Godwin John, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting the widows and their families, saying, “We are not super rich, but we have decided to give out part of our resources to give back to the Mokola barracks community where we grew up.”
Hon. Obode called on all well-meaning Nigerians to join EXMBBA in its humanitarian efforts, saying, “Let us come together to support our widows and children of slain soldiers across Nigerian army barracks. Let us show them that their loved ones did not die in vain, and that we appreciate their sacrifices.”
Secretary of EXMBBA, Francis Olatomirin, PhD, stressed the need for a better living condition for the widows of slain soldiers, saying, “We are gathered here today to show our appreciation and support to the widows of our fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation, Nigeria.”
The Military Authority, represented by the RSMs of each unit, commended EXMBBA for its laudable initiative, which has been putting smiles on the faces of widows in the Barracks every Yuletide period in the last six years.
Heads of women in various units within the Barracks, referred to as Magajias, noted that the initiative has clearly shown that soldiers produce charity-minded children.
EXMBBA members in the diaspora, including Bernard Nduka, Douglas Obode, Murphy Saka, Ade Aina, Solomon Obode, and Yinka Suleiman, were commended for their usual support.
Other members of the organization who spoke at the event reminisced on their childhood days in the Mokola barracks and expressed their commitment to continuing the organization’s good work.
Other members of the organization include Adigun Babalola (PRO), Sunday Ocheja, Samuel Shore, Francis Ekhasomi, Jude Jackson, Oddia Emmanuel, Olabamidele Fagbemi, Monday Atere, Agba Wedi, Papa T, Jude Onumabor, William Tijani, Olowojaiye Moses, Adesoji Yinka Ajao, Mutiu Alabi, Samuel Dosumu, Tony Momoh, Jibola, Eranga Joe, David Okolo, AEE, MC BigSmile, Mustapha Lamidi, Nelly Joe, Wasla, Taiwo Adekanbi, Fryo, Aderogba, Azeez Olalekan, Tunde Ngbenke, Simon Emeka, and Henry Egbesun.
