The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) recently provided essential support to 400 widows across the territory, distributing food items, detergents, and clothes through the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat. This initiative, led by Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, aimed to mark the 2024 International Widows’ Day and reaffirm the administration’s dedication to easing the hardships faced by widows in Abuja.
Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi emphasized the administration’s belief in empowering widows to become self-sufficient and support their families, while also tackling social stigmas that lead to exclusion, discrimination, or harmful practices. She highlighted the commitment of the FCT Administration, under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, to stand with vulnerable segments of society and alleviate their suffering.
The distribution event was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, aimed at bringing hope to those in need and bringing smiles to vulnerable faces. Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi addressed the profound impact of widowhood, noting it often arises from various causes such as disease, poverty, accidents, negligence, and sometimes even hatred, culminating tragically in the loss of a husband.
She spoke passionately about the global issue of widowhood, highlighting that over 258 million widows worldwide often endure neglect and struggle to secure their basic rights and dignity. Despite these challenges, widows historically receive inadequate support across different societies.
Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi pointed out that widows frequently face denial of inheritance rights, loss of property following their husband’s death, and endure severe stigma and discrimination. She affirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to advocating for widows’ rights, emphasizing the need to end violence against widows and their children, and to promote poverty alleviation, education, and comprehensive support systems.
Kolawole Rabiu, the Permanent Secretary of the Secretariat, underscored the primary mission of the Secretariat: to mitigate the hardships faced by widows and other vulnerable groups in the FCT. He emphasized that the Secretariat serves as a deliberate and strategic hub dedicated to the welfare of all vulnerable people, particularly widows, underscoring the significance of their collective gathering.
The theme for the 2024 International Widows’ Day, “Accelerating the Achievement of Gender Equality,” resonated deeply throughout the event. It underscored the ongoing commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women, particularly widows, ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve.
In conclusion, the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat’s distribution of palliatives symbolized more than just material assistance; it represented a crucial step towards fostering inclusivity, dignity, and equality for widows across Abuja. The event served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges widows face globally, reinforcing the importance of collective efforts to support and uplift vulnerable women in society.
