British-Nigerian filmmaker, Ogidan’Birin, empowers over 200 women, girls in Akungba

British-Nigerian filmmaker, tech consultant, and social advocate, Funmi Ogidan, popularly known as Ogidan’Birin, hosted a major empowerment initiative through her foundation, the Widows and Daughters Empowerment Network (WADEN).

The event held at the King’s palace empowered over 200 women and teenage girls drawn from eight quarters in Akungba-Akoko—namely Ibaka, Akua, Ilale, Igbelu, Okusa, Akunmi, Okeke, and Araromi.

 The initiative, themed “Empower One. Transform Generations,” was aimed at building resilience, fostering self-reliance, and equipping participants with tools for personal and economic transformation.

WADEN’s intervention targeted widows and young girls, offering mentorship, vocational training, and the distribution of start-up kits to help beneficiaries kickstart small businesses and regain financial independence.

Speaking at the event, Ogidan’Birin reaffirmed her commitment to uplifting underserved communities. “When you empower a woman, you empower an entire community. Akungba is home, and it was only fitting that this year’s celebration included giving back to the very people who shape its strength,” she said.

Community leaders, traditional rulers, and youth representatives praised the initiative, describing it as a “life-changing experience” for many families in the area.

The WADEN outreach marked a highlight of this year’s Akungba Day festivities and reinforces the power of purpose-driven celebrations that blend culture with compassion.

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