'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a heartfelt demonstration of compassion and commitment to social welfare, the Wife of the Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has called for increased support for widows and the elderly, emphasizing that they must not be neglected by society.
The First Lady made this appeal during an empowerment programme held at the Government House in Lokoja, where she distributed essential items and cash gifts to 500 widows from across the state’s 21 local government areas.
The event, organized by the Office of the First Lady, saw beneficiaries receive bags of rice, clothing materials, and financial support aimed at alleviating their economic challenges. Mrs. Ododo used the occasion to highlight the importance of empowering widows and the elderly, describing them as invaluable members of society whose well-being is critical to national growth.
In her address, the First Lady urged political office holders, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to join hands in supporting widows, noting that the government alone cannot bear the responsibility of addressing their needs.
“Widows and the elderly are valuable members of our society, and we must not neglect them. Their economic stability is crucial not just for their survival but for the overall growth of our nation,” Mrs. Ododo stated.
She emphasized the need for sustainable empowerment initiatives, such as job opportunities and business support, to help widows achieve self-sufficiency. “We all have a role to play in ensuring widows are empowered. With the right assistance, they can become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
The First Lady reaffirmed her dedication to supporting widows and other vulnerable groups, assuring them that her office would continue to implement programmes aimed at improving their lives.
“My doors remain open at all times to provide assistance. We will keep working to alleviate their burdens and create opportunities for a better future,” Mrs. Ododo pledged.
Her remarks were met with applause from the beneficiaries and attendees, who expressed gratitude for the timely intervention. Many of the widows shared stories of hardship and resilience, underscoring the significance of the First Lady’s initiative in providing hope and relief.
The empowerment programme is part of a broader effort by the Kogi State Government to address the plight of vulnerable groups, particularly widows who often face economic and social challenges. By distributing essential items and cash gifts, the initiative seeks to provide immediate relief while laying the groundwork for long-term empowerment.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Amina Ibrahim, a widow from Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, expressed her appreciation for the support. “This gesture means so much to me and my children. The rice and clothing will help us greatly, and the cash gift will enable me to start a small business to support my family,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Grace Okoro from Lokoja, described the First Lady as a “beacon of hope” for widows in the state. “Her kindness and commitment to our welfare give us hope that we are not forgotten,” she added.
The First Lady’s initiative has been widely praised as a model for inclusive governance and social responsibility. By prioritizing the needs of widows and the elderly, the programme aligns with the broader goals of the Kogi State Government to promote social equity and economic empowerment.
As the event concluded, Mrs. Ododo reiterated her call for collective action, urging stakeholders to collaborate in creating a more inclusive and supportive society. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of widows and ensure they live with dignity and hope,” she said.
The empowerment programme not only provided immediate relief to the beneficiaries but also highlighted the importance of sustained efforts to address the challenges faced by vulnerable groups. It stands as a testament to the First Lady’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Kogi State’s most marginalized citizens.
