In a significant gesture of support and empowerment, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, the Wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, recently led the Widows Enhancement Programme through her initiative, the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA).
The event, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Uyo, saw the distribution of cash and gift items to 250 widows from across the 31 Local Government Areas, alongside members of eleven Non-Governmental Organizations in the state. This initiative coincided with the commemoration of the 2024 International Widow’s Day, observed globally on June 23.
During her address, Pastor Patience Eno expressed gratitude to her husband, Governor Umo Eno, for enabling initiatives that promote inclusivity and support for all women in Akwa Ibom State. She highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the human rights violations widows often face following the loss of their spouses. As Chairperson of the Akwa Ibom State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, she emphasized the need to combat harmful widowhood practices, underscoring the state’s commitment with laws like the Widowhood Law of 2013 and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) VAPP Law of 2020.
Furthermore, Pastor Patience Eno reassured the widows of her commitment to addressing any injustices brought to her attention promptly. She directed the attending NGOs for widows to organize training sessions on entrepreneurial skills, aiming to enhance the economic growth and development of widows across the state.
Mrs. Anne Abraham, a coordinator of GIFA, praised the resilience of the widows and stressed that the programme was designed to create a supportive environment where widows are recognized and supported by the government. The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, lauded the governor and his wife for their compassion and commitment to providing comfort and a sense of belonging to widows in Akwa Ibom State.
Legal experts present at the event, including Magistrate Helen Umana from the Akwa Ibom State Multi-Door Courthouse and Barrister Iquo Abia, Chairperson of FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers), enlightened the widows on their rights under the protective laws of the state. They encouraged the widows to speak out against harmful cultural practices and assured them of ongoing support in the fight for their rights.
In an inspirational message themed “A Wise Widow,” Bishop Enobong Essien encouraged widows to remain strong and resolute, assuring them of divine presence and assistance in their journey forward.
Madam Alice Uwah, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Patience Eno for selecting them to participate in the Widows Enhancement Programme. She emphasized that the initiative had not only provided material support but also reinstated a sense of belonging and appreciation for the government’s benevolence among the widows.
The Widows Enhancement Programme spearheaded by Pastor Patience Umo Eno stands as a testament to the state government’s commitment to improving the lives of widows and ensuring their rights and dignity are protected in Akwa Ibom State.
