Protect, empower and support widows – Ogun Gov’s Wife

Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun wants the society to rise in support of widows and protect them from harmful practices.

Mrs Bamidele made the call in Abeokuta during an empowerment programme in commemoration of this year’s International Widows Day.

Mrs Bamidele Abiodun (l) with some of the beneficiaries at the event

Speaking on the theme of the year’s commemoration, “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”, Mrs Abiodun advocated greater commitment to recognizing and protecting the rights of widows in the society.

The governor’s wife emphasised the need to assist the group of vulnerable women in alleviating some burdens placed on them by tradition and ensure their access to education, decent work and training opportunities.

The event featured presentation of work tools, including sewing machines and hair dryers as well as food items and cash to representatives of widows groups from the three senatorial districts of Ogun state.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Funmi Efuwape, encouraged them to take advantage of the gesture to improve their status and make a positive impact on their families.

According to the Press Officer, Office of the First Lady, Mrs Kemi Oyeleye, one of the widows, Mrs. Dupe Balogun from Ifo Local Government Area, while speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the governor’s wife and prayed for the success of the present administration.

Oluremi Olugbenro