By Wisdom Agbonta
In commemoration of year 2025 International Widows Day, the Edo State Government through its Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has empowered widows in line with the theme, “Access to Justice and Empowerment for Vulnerable Widows,” across the three senatorial districts of the State.
At the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City and venue for the Edo South Senatorial District, the Coordinator of the Office of The First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, represented by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Nimata Umar Ikhilor, highlighted the need to support and empower widows in the State.
Mrs. Anani stated, “As the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady in Edo State, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of widowhood in women. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that widows receive the support and empowerment they deserve”. Let us work together to create a society where widows are valued, respected and empowered to live fulfilling lives.”
In a welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi, highlighted the significance of the event to include identifying with the resilience and strength of widows, citing them as a powerful inspiration to communities. She stated, “Today marks a significant milestone in our collective commitment to supporting one of the most vulnerable yet resilient segment of our society. As we commemorate the International Widows Day, we gather not just to acknowledge their struggles, but to celebrate their strength, resilience and invaluable contributions to our communities.
Today’s empowerment programme is a testament to our Government’s recognition of these qualities and our determination to provide the necessary support. This programme involves keynote addresses that is geared towards strengthening the resilience of our widows and the distribution of various empowerment items to boost their businesses”.
Chief Idaomi asserted that the theme resonates with the Ministry’s mission, saying, “It emphasizes the urgent need to address the systemic inequalities that disproportionately affect widows and to create pathways for their economic empowerment and social inclusion. Under the Sen. Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has consistently prioritized enhancing the lives of women, especially the vulnerable.
“Today, we are not just offering temporary relief, we are investing in sustainable solutions. This programme is not a one-time event, but the beginning of a comprehensive support system with other widows to use these resources to rebuild, grow and shape their future. Let me again thank our donors, partners, security services and staff.”
Highlight of the event was the presentation of empowerment materials to widows, who were chosen through an open ballot process. The items included wet grinding machines, dry grinding machines, popcorn making machines, industrial burner, point of sale (POS) machines, coolers, amongst others. The beneficiaries were overjoyed, expressing heartfelt gratitude and praise on the State Government for its thoughtful initiative, which will transform their lives.
Present at the event were the Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Hon. Jolly Ogbeide; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien; Directors of the Ministry; the wife of Edo State Commissioner of Police; Mrs. Ada Helen Agbonika; representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), amongst others.
