Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
About 200 widows from the Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency were on Thursday empowered by the member representing the constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa.
The beneficiaries, who had earlier undergone vocational training in skills such as soap-making, hairdressing, and make-up artistry, also received start-up kits to help them launch their businesses.
Speaking during the empowerment event, Rep. Osonwa said the initiative was part of his unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of widows and other vulnerable groups in his constituency by providing them with sustainable means of livelihood.
The Labour Party lawmaker said he was moved by the plight of widows amid the country’s economic hardship, stressing that skill acquisition—not just distribution of palliatives—was the most impactful form of empowerment.
“What we shared here today are not just items—they are meaningful tools to help the beneficiaries establish their own businesses,” he said.
“Each participant was trained to use what they received as a source of income. This is not a one-off intervention but part of a broader, long-term initiative to empower 5,000 women and young people across the constituency.”
Osonwa disclosed that earlier phases of the initiative included support for young farmers and small business owners, with some receiving up to N500,000 in start-up grants.
“In March 2025, we expanded into ICT and education. We distributed laptops, promoted digital learning in schools, and supported students with JAMB registration and scholarships,” he added.
“Now, our focus is on vocational training. For many families, skills like soap-making or hairdressing can be the difference between dependency and self-reliance.”
He assured that the empowerment programme would be sustained and extended to every community within the constituency.
“Every community in all 22 wards is covered. Our goal is inclusivity. No ward has been left behind, and no community overlooked,” he said.
Several beneficiaries, including Nwoko Oyidiya Ama from Arochukwu, Mercy Chikezie from Isu, and Nneoma Mba Idika, a hairdresser, praised the lawmaker for the gesture, describing it as a life-changing intervention.
In his remarks, one of the facilitators, Elder Uga Kalu, urged the beneficiaries to put their new skills to productive use and resist the temptation to sell off their equipment.
He commended the lawmaker for his vision and support, which he said would go a long way in transforming the lives of the widows.
