During the 2026 International Widows’ Day event held in Umuahia, Abia State First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, pledged that widows in the region would no longer face injustice, poverty, or housing insecurity. She emphasized that the state government is dedicated to ensuring widows maintain their dignity and economic independence.
Mrs. Otti unveiled a new grant program providing N50,000 to over 600 widows, totaling N30 million in direct support for their businesses. Furthermore, the administration plans to build 17 additional Dignity Homes before the year concludes, building on the 35 units already delivered to vulnerable women across the state’s 17 local government areas.
The First Lady also highlighted the government’s role in enforcing the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act to eradicate outdated and harmful widowhood practices. She reassured the attendees that they remain valued members of society and are not alone in their challenges.
Mrs. Ngozi Felix, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, noted that the government provides more than just housing; it also offers vocational training, healthcare, and legal assistance via the Enyiche Sexual Assault Referral Centre. During the keynote address, Chief Magistrate Enyidiya Uma-Onwunta encouraged society to prioritize sustainable economic empowerment over temporary relief, urging women to stop perpetuating discriminatory practices against one another.
