As part of activities to mark the United Nations' International Widows' Day, the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State has empowered 150 widows with entrepreneurial skills to boost their income-generating activities.
At the Widows' Enhancement Programme, held at the Women Development Centre in Uyo, beneficiaries were trained in snail and mushroom farming and received starter packs and financial support to kick-start and grow their agribusiness ventures.
Speaking at the event, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, described the initiative as more than just economic support.
"This is a seed of self-reliance and a symbol of dignity," she stated, emphasizing that the programme aligns with Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda, which prioritizes sustainable empowerment.
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"This transformative vision is about sustainable livelihood. As widows, you have shown strength despite the odds. This programme is designed to help you build a better tomorrow," she added.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Dr. Inibehe Silas, praised the initiative for equipping widows with the tools to achieve financial independence. She announced that the ministry would monitor progress and provide additional support to those effectively applying their new skills, with unscheduled field visits planned.
Practical sessions were led by agribusiness experts including Mr. Jackson Ndueso (snail farming) and Ms. Glory Ekanem (mushroom farming), who provided step-by-step training from setup to harvest.
Additionally, Mrs. Iniobong Josiah, a resource person on Mental Health and Financial Literacy, encouraged the widows to prioritize mental wellness and financial responsibility, urging them to stay connected with support systems and engage in income-generating activities.
The event concluded with the distribution of farming starter packs, food items, wrappers, and financial aid to all 150 beneficiaries, many of whom expressed deep gratitude to Lady Helen Eno Obareki for her compassion and commitment to improving their lives.
