The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and empowerment of widows during the commemoration of 2025 International Widows Day.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, said the commemoration was an opportunity to reflect, uplift, and recommit to the dignity of widows across the state.
She highlighted the administration’s efforts under the THEMES+ development agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, noting that the government remains steadfast in ensuring no vulnerable group is left behind, especially widows.
Dada stated that the ministry has implemented tangible programmes such as the Livelihood Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP), a four-week short-term training held across the five IBILE Divisions of the state. The programme trains widows in trades like catering, hairdressing, fashion design, tie & dye, and soap making. Participants are supported with start-up kits upon completion.
She added that many widows have benefited from the programme and returned to their communities as contributors to household and community prosperity. The commissioner also mentioned the Micro-Enterprise Support Initiative, through which hundreds of widows have accessed financial grants, business tools, and market linkage services.
The commissioner noted that WAPA also offers psychosocial counselling and legal advisory services through its Family Social Services and Domestic Violence Unit, to address the emotional trauma, legal vulnerabilities, and social exclusion often faced by widows.
“This gathering is not just ceremonial. It is a solemn call to action for families, communities, and institutions to ensure that no widow in Lagos suffers in silence or is sidelined in society,” Dada said.
In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, expressed gratitude to all attendees and stakeholders. She applauded the widows present for their courage and restated the ministry’s commitment to their growth, protection, and empowerment.
She also commended the Honourable Commissioner for her leadership, and appreciated the Director of Women Affairs, Mrs. Funke Shyllon, alongside all directors and team members of the ministry for their efforts in making the event a success.