Saturday June 28, 2025
A total of 150 widows across the three senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom, Friday , June 27, received empowerment packages from the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki as part of activities marking the International Widows’ Day.
Speaking at the occasion, Lady Obareki said the initiative was a crucial step toward fostering self-reliance and dignity among the widows, thereby aligning with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno’s administration in the state.
Her words: “Today’s initiative is more than just teaching you mushroom and snail farming; it is a seed of self-reliance and a symbol of dignity, an endeavour rooted in the vision of sustainable empowerment, and this transformative effort reflects the core principles of His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno’s administration.”
She further stated, “Although life may have brought challenges your way, we recognize the strength, courage, and resilience you have shown and this programme is designed to provide you with the skills and support necessary to build a brighter, and more secured future.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Etukudo, talked on the efforts of the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, who is committed to enhancing the well-being of women in the state, has recognized the importance of equipping young widows with entrepreneurial skills to help them attain financial independence, improve their livelihoods, and adequately provide for their families.
She urged the beneficiaries to apply the skills acquired to generate income and meet their families’ needs.
Etukudo who presented the empowerment packages to the beneficiaries on behalf of Lady Obareki, intimated them of her ministry’s preparedness to monitor the extent of progress made by each person, assuring hard working beneficiaries of future support.
Several beneficiaries thanked Lady Helen Eno Obareki for her thoughtfulness and support to them. They prayed for God’s blessings upon her and her family, as well as for the long life and good health of Governor Umo Eno.
The event which featured insightful sessions on mental health, financial literacy, comprehensive training in snail and mushroom farming, as well as presentation of starter packs and financial support was attended by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Margaret Edem; female chairpersons in the local government areas of the state; wives of chairmen of local government councils; female stakeholders across the state and young widows.
