A non governmental organisation, Modupe Smith Foundation, weekend empowered 120 widows in Okene, Okene local government area of Kogi State with over N30 million in its efforts to bring succour to the less privileged in the society.
Speaking during the unveiling of the empowerment programme in Okene, the founder of the foundation, Mrs. Motunrayo Raji, said her foundation decided to empower the strong and resilient widows in Okene, not just with material support, but will tools , skills and structures necessary to build lasting and meaningful change in their lives.
Speaking further she said, “At the Modupe Smith Foundation, our mission goes far beyond handing out items. While giving can offer short-term relief, true empowerment is about building capacity. It is about equipping individuals to rise above their circumstances and walk confidently toward self-reliance and dignity.
“Empowerment for us, is not an event, it is a process. A process that must be intentional, structured and sustainable. That is why our approach is based on a comprehensive five -step model designed to ensure long -term impact .
According to her, the steps include hands-on training, practical skills that can be turned into livelihoods, providing the tools and financial support needed to kick-start their businesses, and supporting wellness and personal stability because a healthy body and mind are vital for success.
Others are monitoring and leadership development, ensuring that no one walks the journey alone and assisting in establishing a corporate identity and bank accounts, connecting each participant to the formal economy and giving them a platform to thrive.
According to her, each beneficiary will have the opportunity to choose a vocation from carefully selected options, noting that these vocations are designed to match their interests, strengths, and the opportunities available in their communities.
She noted that the over one hundred twenty widows will be trained in catering services, tailoring and fashion design, and hair dressing, while those who want to engage in trading will be guided in choosing a trade.
“Our dedicated volunteers are here on ground to assist you through the selection process. Feel free to approach them with any questions or guidance you need. You will be assigned to a professional trainer who will equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in your choosen path. This is the beginning of a structured journey, a journey of learning, growth and financial independence,” she said.
Speaking earlier, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Tijani Anaje Muhammed, commended the initiative of the organiser of the empowerment programme.
The royal father who was represented by the Ohi of Okene, Alh. Dr Isah Momoh Okatahi, encouraged others who are well to do to emulate Motunrayo Raji, by contributing to both infrastructure and human capital development in their place of birth.
An uncle to the founder, Mr Smith, while commending the resilience of the women of Ebiraland, particularly the widows, advised beneficiaries of the empowerment to put the money to judicious use, so as to be useful to their families and the society.
“In the traditional Ebiraland, the orphans and widows are not allowed to suffer or lack protection. I encourage the people to be supportive of one another, that is the only way a society can see development and progress. You must engage in meaningful business that will support your family in the payment of school fees, feeding, clothing among others, he said.
The president of De-Greater Height Front (DE-GHF), Alhaji Ibrahim Isa-Amoka, commended the founder for leaving her comfort zone to connect with her roots and empower the vulnerable in society.
He said that as an organisation that is also into humanitarian support, the president promised continued collaboration with the foundation to reach out to more vulnerable people in society.
The high point of the occasion was the presentation of an award of excellence to Mrs Motunrayo Raji for her contribution to the emancipation of the downtrodden in the society by De-Greater Height Front.
