By Victoria Okpanachi
As the world marks the 2026 International Widows’ Day, the Wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has stressed the importance of implementing stronger policies aimed at protecting widows’ rights and improving their socio-economic well-being.
In a message themed “Widows in Africa: Perspective on Justice, Dignity, and Economic Power,” the First Lady stressed the need for comprehensive reforms that would guarantee widows greater legal recognition and protection from social and economic hardships.
She noted that many widows continue to face discrimination, deprivation and exclusion despite their contributions to family and society, adding that governments and relevant stakeholders must work together to address these challenges.
Hajia Sefinat advocated the establishment and enforcement of stronger legal frameworks to prohibit harmful cultural practices that undermine the rights and dignity of widows, while ensuring that inheritance and property rights are adequately protected.
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According to her, justice for widows goes beyond legal protection and must include opportunities that enable them to attain economic independence and live dignified lives.
She identified skills acquisition programmes, access to micro-credit facilities and sustainable employment opportunities as critical tools for empowering widows and reducing their vulnerability.
The first lady stated that since assuming office, the welfare of widows has remained a major focus of her interventions, pointing to various empowerment programmes that have provided cash grants, vocational training and other forms of support aimed at promoting self-reliance.
She disclosed that her office, through the Ohunene Empowerment Initiative (OEI), would continue to expand welfare and empowerment programmes to ensure that widows, particularly those at the grassroots, benefit from government support and opportunities.
Hajia Sefinat reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to policies that promote the safety, well-being and dignity of widows, while urging widows across Kogi State to remain hopeful, resilient and steadfast in supporting their families and communities.
