International Widows Day: EDSG Reiterates Commitment to Improving the Lives of Widows

By Rosemary Okoduwa

As the world commemorates International Widows Day, the Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Edo State Government to promoting the welfare, dignity, protection, and empowerment of widows across the State.

In a message marking the occasion, Hon. Abdallah noted that International Widows Day, observed annually on June 23 and recognized by the United Nations, serves as a global reminder of the unique challenges faced by millions of widows, including economic hardship, social exclusion, discrimination, and limited access to opportunities and support services.

The Commissioner emphasized that widows play vital roles within their families and communities, often demonstrating remarkable strength, resilience, and courage in the face of loss and adversity. She stressed the need for society to move beyond sympathy and embrace deliberate actions aimed at protecting the rights and improving the living conditions of widows.

“Today, we honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of widows in Edo State and across the world. Many widows continue to face social, economic, and emotional challenges following the loss of their spouses. As a government, we remain committed to ensuring that no widow is left behind in our pursuit of an inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society,” she stated.

Hon. Abdallah further disclosed that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development will continue to champion policies and programmes that promote social protection, economic empowerment, access to justice, and psychosocial support for widows and other vulnerable groups.

She commended Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo for his people-centred approach to governance and his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable persons across Edo State.

The Commissioner also called on families, communities, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, and development partners to collaborate with government in eliminating harmful cultural practices, discrimination, and stigmatization against widows, while creating opportunities that enable them to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

“As we commemorate International Widows Day, let us renew our collective resolve to uphold the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of widows. Together, we can build a society where every widow is respected, supported, and empowered to thrive,” she added.
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International Widows Day was established by the United Nations to raise awareness of the challenges faced by widows and to encourage actions that safeguard their rights, welfare, and overall wellbeing.