NGO empowers 500 widows through skills training, mentoring

A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) known as the Praying Friends Network (PFN) has provided empowerment to over 500 widows through skills training and mentoring.

The aim of the program was to promote self-reliance among widows and enable them to care for their children in the absence of their late husbands. The initiative took place at Holy Trinity Church on Igbo Road, Sabon Gari, Kano, as part of the commemoration of the 2023 International Widows Day.

PFN President, Thompson I. Chukwurah, explained to the press that their goal was to create innovative models for empowering widows economically. In addition to providing education and mentorship on self-reliance, self-confidence, and economic empowerment, the widows were trained in various skills implementation programs to help them achieve financial independence and become breadwinners for their families.

Chukwurah disclosed that the theme for International Widows Day 2023 was ‘Innovation and technology for gender equality.’

He stated, “Our objective is to create innovative models that will economically empower widows in Kano, Abuja, and Lagos through strategic technologies, ultimately lifting 4,000 widows out of poverty. Our focus is on innovative sources of income, financial management, and entrepreneurial opportunities that support gender equality.”

He further emphasized the need to raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows, including social stigma, loss of income, mental trauma, bias, and discrimination. The organization aimed to amplify the voices of widows who face injustice and poverty and advocated for improved opportunities and policies for widows in Nigeria.

During the event, Pastor Kelvin Ekeke, a Financial Analyst and resource person, highlighted the importance of saving and investing for the future. He encouraged the widows to pursue innovative income-generating activities and to approach their work with passion, dedication, and belief in themselves and God’s providence.

One of the widows, Chief Rose Obalum, expressed gratitude to the organizers for instilling hope in widows in Kano state. Despite losing her husband a long time ago, Chief Obalum has remained strong and financially independent.

She has successfully trained all her children, with one of them now residing in the United States and another working as a high-profile banker. Chief Obalum has also made philanthropic contributions, helping many people in need.

Chief Obalum, popularly known as Hajiya Salad, encouraged her fellow widows to remain resilient and engage in activities that benefit themselves and society instead of succumbing to the stigmatization associated with widowhood.

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