NGO Empowers 100 Widows, Less-Privileged Women In Lagos.

Emmanuel Clement.

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Touch of Love and Lifting Hands Foundation has empowered over 100 widows, vulnerable and less-privileged women in lfako ljaye local Government Area of Lagos in various skills acquisition and Job creation scheme.

The Founder of the NGO, Engineer (Dr) Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi who restated the commitment of the organisation to continue to assist the aged mothers, widows, vulnerable and the less privilege in the society, said the gesture was in line with the group’s core value of providing succour to the aged mothers and empowering widows and the vulnerable in society.

Engr Atinuke who gave the assurance when she hosted the aged mothers, widows, vulnerable and less privilege to a Christmas party, stated that the organisation’s aim is to put smiles on the face of the aged, widows, vulnerable and less privilege as the foundation intends to train the widows and vulnerable by empowering them so as to improve their livelihood and that of their children.

In her welcome address, Engr. Owolabi noted that the essence of celebrating Christmas with the aged mothers, widows, vulnerable and less privilege was to put smiles on their faces despite the challenges and turbulence being faced in the country.

According to her, “l am happy to put joy and smiles on people’s faces especially the aged mothers, who are here in their numbers. This is a ministry God has placed in my hands and we have been doing this humanitarian service for the past 6 years, though this year came with so much economic disruption but we still find it in our hearts to celebrate them because it is part of us and we will not relent in contributing my own quota in giving back to the society.

“I want to assure you all today that by the grace of God, l will continue to key into good policies and programs that will have direct bearing on the lives of the widows and vulnerable, as we intend to empower over 100 widows, vulnerable and less privilege in skills acquisition and job creation,” she submitted.

Atinuke who is the chairperson of Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter, explained further that the foundation which is an NGO is dedicated to take care and uplifting of aged mothers, widows and vulnerable in the society as it is devoid of religious discrimination and inclination of beneficiaries that caters for both the Christian and lslamic faith.

The Councilor representing Ward E in lfako ljaye legislative arm, Hon Adebo Samuel Kayode expressed joy and commended Engr. Atinuke for her effort in trying to eradicate poverty and showing love to the widows and vulnerable especially the aged mothers.

He stated that many individuals have this resources but to show a little love to the less privilege becomes a problem, while calling on captains of industries, philanthropists, corporate organisations and Nigerians of goodwill to identify with NGOs in providing succour for widows and other vulnerable women, noting that government cannot do it alone.

Hon Kayode who is the Deputy Majority Leader in lfako ljaye council, urged the widows and vulnerable being empowered to make good use of the opportunity given to them.

Some of the beneficiaries, Mama Oloko (85years), Mama ldowu (80years) and Mrs Olubodun (78years) showered prayers on the founder for her love and care towards the aged mothers .

Highlights of the event was presentation of awards to the Deputy Governor of Lagos, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Engr. Chief Devakumar Edwin, Engr. Adewale Bashir as an Humanitarian Icon 2023 by the foundation.

Also for her dedication and selfless service to humanity Engr. (Dr) Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi was given Social Impact Award by Lagos Community Youth Development initiative.

Food items, clothes and cash were distributed to the beneficiaries. The beneficiaries were also provided with free medical treatment and drugs.