As the world marks International Widows Day, the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) has joined forces with the United Nations and various civil society organisations globally to amplify the voices of widows and tackle the systemic challenges they face.
This year’s commemoration comes at a pivotal moment, with recent statistics indicating that over 258 million widows worldwide are grappling with disproportionate levels of poverty, discrimination, and social exclusion. Particularly in Nigeria, cultural practices often exacerbate these issues, leaving many widows to confront disinheritance, homelessness, and societal stigma following the loss of their spouses.
Sir Dr. Emeka Offor, the founder of SEOF, has urged Nigerians to recognise widows’ plight, engage in meaningful acts of support, and prioritise their welfare as a central focus of this year’s celebrations.
Dr. Offor reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to change this narrative through its innovative Touch-A-Life Housing Project, launched in 2020 by SEOF’s Vice President, Dr. Mrs. Adaora Offor Esq. This initiative was born from first-hand encounters with the distressing realities faced by widows.
SEOF has unveiled plans for Phase 4 of the Housing Project to mark this year’s celebration, with ten new units set for immediate construction. These homes embody more than just physical structures; they represent a foundation for renewed hope, dignity, and economic opportunity.
In a statement, Sir Dr. Emeka Offor asserted, “Our Foundation’s intervention aligns with timeless principles of human dignity and scriptural wisdom, as articulated in 1 Timothy 5:3: ‘Give proper recognition to widows who are really in need.’
This profound guidance informs our careful selection process, ensuring support reaches those most vulnerable. Our 2024 Impact Report confirms that 100% of beneficiaries meet stringent need criteria, mirroring the biblical call to discernment and intentional care.”
Dr. Offor further emphasised, “As we commemorate International Widows Day 2025, the modest impact we have made through our Foundation’s Widows Cooperative Society inspires us to give even more, even when resources are scarce. Truly, one does not need much to give, for givers never lack. We encourage everyone to bless a widow today and every day, bringing smiles to their faces and helping them cope with their bereavement.”
In closing, he wished all widows a heartfelt message: “Happy International Widows Day to our dear special ones.”
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