Lagos: The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), has disbursed N50,000 in cash support to 750 widows across the state. This initiative was announced by the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, during a programme organised by the Ministry in Lagos. The financial assistance is part of the state’s commemoration of the 2025 International Widows’ Day.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs. Dada highlighted the state’s commitment to combating violence against women, particularly widows. She emphasized that WAPA has effectively translated the vision of the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration into actionable programmes, significantly impacting lives. Initiatives such as the Livelihood Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP) and the Micro-Enterprise Support Initiative have been instrumental in alleviating the challenges faced by widows.
Mrs. Dada pointed out that the government is focused on inclusiveness, compassion, and empowerment. The state has implemented initiatives to equip widows with practical skills in trades like catering, hairdressing, fashion design, tie and dye, and soap making. The programme ensures that upon completion, participants are provided with start-up kits to facilitate sustainable livelihoods.
Furthermore, Mrs. Dada acknowledged the emotional, legal, and social challenges associated with widowhood. WAPA provides psychosocial counseling and legal advisory services through its Family Social Services and Domestic Violence Unit. The selection of cash gift beneficiaries was made from a social register, NGO-focused groups, and those registered with WAPA.
The commissioner reiterated WAPA’s dedication to advocating against cultural and structural discrimination against widows, promoting laws and systems that protect their rights and dignity. International Widows’ Day, observed every June 23, highlights the exploitation, deprivation, and persecution faced by women due to the loss of their husbands.
