By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Ward Special Assistants in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State have empowered widows with cash support as part of a maiden empowerment exercise aimed at improving their economic well-being.
The programme, held at the APC Secretariat in Lokoja, was organised in honour of the people-oriented leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and in furtherance of his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development.
Speaking at the event, the Lokoja Coordinator for Ward Special Assistants, Muhammed Abdulkadir Pati, said the initiative was designed to provide direct financial assistance to widows, restore their dignity, and promote self-reliance.
According to him, the empowerment exercise was deliberately organised to mark the second anniversary of Governor Ododo’s administration and to reaffirm its sustained concern for widows and other vulnerable groups across the state.
Pati noted that widows play critical roles in sustaining families and communities despite facing numerous socio-economic challenges.
He explained that the cash support was intended to break cycles of poverty, encourage small-scale entrepreneurship, build economic resilience, and restore hope among the beneficiaries.
Each of the 120 widows received ₦50,000, bringing the total amount disbursed to ₦6 million.
Representing the Lokoja Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Danjuma praised the Ward Special Assistants for embarking on the empowerment initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that aligns with the state government’s commitment to grassroots development and social welfare.
He commended the coordinators for prioritising widows and vulnerable groups, noting that such initiatives complement the efforts of the local government in alleviating poverty at the grassroots.
Also speaking, the representative of the APC Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Olubiyo Lanus, commended the organisers for the initiative and appealed to party members and residents to take advantage of the ongoing APC e-registration exercise to further strengthen the party at the grassroots.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hajiya Zainab Sulaiman said:
“We are truly grateful to the Ward Special Assistants for this kind gesture. The support will go a long way in helping us sustain our livelihoods and meet the needs of our families.”
Pati expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for the confidence reposed in Ward Special Assistants, pledging their continued commitment to grassroots service delivery.
The coordinator also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello for laying a solid foundation for continuity and progress in the state.
He further thanked the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu Yusuf, the Auditor-General for Local Government, Dr. Yakubu Isiyaka Adabenege, and other stakeholders whose support contributed to the success of the programme.
Beneficiaries were encouraged to utilise the funds judiciously for small businesses, children’s education, and other productive ventures.
The event concluded with prayers for continued peace, prosperity, and inclusive development in Kogi State.
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