Abia Government Vows to Empower Widows and Protect Their Rights
The Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering widows and vulnerable women, ensuring they live with dignity and enjoy an improved standard of living.
This pledge was reiterated during an event organized in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady to commemorate the 2025 International Widows Day. Held at the JAAC Building, Secretariat Road, Umuahia, the program was aimed at recognizing the challenges faced by widows across the state and reinforcing the government’s resolve to provide them with adequate support and a sense of belonging.
In her address, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, emphasized the urgent need to support widows, who often suffer severe hardship due to neglect. She expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering dedication and humanitarian efforts of the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti, in uplifting the lives of vulnerable women.
Dr. Felix highlighted that the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, established by Governor Otti on 15th August 2024, was created to implement evidence-based programs targeted at socio-economic development, with a core focus on vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, the elderly, and especially indigent widows.
“We are driven by the principle of leaving no one behind. Our work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to promote and improve the well-being of all citizens and residents of Abia State,” she said.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Beyond Reason: Rebuilding Lives, Strengthening Communities, and Challenging Stigma,” Dr. Felix noted that it reflects a comprehensive commitment to not only acknowledge the loss widows face but to also empower them in rebuilding their lives free from stigma.
She called on civil society, government institutions, and individuals to join forces in building a more just and inclusive society where widows can thrive.
One of the guest speakers, Mrs. Patience Ngozi Udonsi, a retired Level 14 officer and widow of 22 years, thanked the Governor and his wife for their efforts in supporting widows. She encouraged fellow widows to remain resilient and work towards self-improvement and societal contribution.
The First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu, also addressed the gathering. Drawing from the theme, she acknowledged the many economic and social challenges widows face, which often erode their dignity and hinder their potential.
“Despite these challenges, widows can become a beacon of hope and productivity when their potential is properly harnessed,” Mrs. Emetu remarked.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting widows through programs focused on economic empowerment, social protection, and psychological support.
“As the wife of the Governor, I have consistently condemned harmful widowhood practices, including the denial of inheritance rights. My office will remain open and active in defending and promoting the rights of widows,” she declared.
She further urged widows to stay strong and resilient, assuring them of continued government support and interventions.
The event concluded with a variety of activities including a special dance presentation by widows, free medical check-ups, and distribution of cash gifts.
Dignitaries in attendance included the State Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna (represented by Barr. Nneka Obike), Head of Abia State Civil Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, wives of local government chairmen, and other notable personalities.