Former Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development and APC candidate for Akure North/Akure South Federal Constituency in the 2027 House of Representatives election, Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji-Ohwovoriole, has pledged to support widows through empowerment programmes and collaborative initiatives aimed at improving their economic well-being.

Ohwovoriole made the pledge during the inauguration of the Ondo State chapter executives of the association at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

She said her decision to identify with the association was driven by her commitment to advancing women’s welfare, particularly that of widows grappling with economic and social challenges following the loss of their spouses.

The former commissioner said widows needed encouragement, support and opportunities to rebuild their lives, assuring them that they were not alone in their struggles.

“As a woman, I find pleasure in identifying with women wherever they gather, particularly when they are advocating for their rights and well-being.

“These women have experienced pain and are confronted with different challenges. What they need is encouragement and support. I am here in solidarity with them to assure them that they are not alone. In our own little way, we will continue to reach out to them,” she said.

Ohwovoriole expressed optimism that more structured empowerment programmes would be introduced to improve the livelihoods of widows, particularly if she secured a seat in the National Assembly.

She disclosed that she had already developed initiatives aimed at supporting the women, adding that her engagement with the newly inaugurated executives would provide an opportunity to establish partnerships and identify areas of mutual interest.

She emphasised that empowerment should go beyond the provision of financial assistance, noting that skills acquisition, capacity building and the distribution of start-up kits would equip widows to establish sustainable businesses.

According to her, providing the women with relevant skills and resources would promote economic independence and enable them to cater for their children.