Soroptimist International Asaba with State Govt. Empower Widows
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By Norbert Fidelis
It was a great moment for widows in Asaba as the Soroptimist group came up with a wonderful package that will alleviate their suffering.
Speaking during the programme which was held at Grand Hotel, Asaba on Saturday, the President of the group Mrs Stella Marris Ijeh, welcomed everybody to the occasion. She said the Soroptimist group is a Non Governmental Organization that is set up to bring peace, and give women and girls an improved living.
Speaking further, she said Soroptimist is coined from the Latin word Soro, which means sisters and optima which means best, adding that they are best sisters who are generous in sharing what they have. She described the women as invisible women with invisible problem.
Meanwhile, the SSA to the Governor and State Coordinator on the Widows Welfare Scheme, Elder Isioma Okonta has condemned the injustices and horrible experience widows pass through, saying such inhuman must be stopped. He said widows must be giving their rights in the society, and should not be made to lose all what they suffered for with their husbands in the name of Tradition.
He said his ministry has already visited some Traditional Rulers in the State who has promised to stop the barbaric Traditions, act of injustice, and acts meted out to widows.
Elder Dr. Okonta added that as at date, the govt is paying 5, 607 widows stipends every month and urge those who have not yet been captured to register through the Widow Welfare Scheme.
He also maintained that the Delta State Government will partner with the World Bank to empower widows who are between 18-50 years in various skills and give them starter packs, while those who are 51 years and above will receive monthly stipend and free medical treatment.
Other Speakers at the event are Dr. James Osaji of the Nigeria University Commission, and Dr Yinkore Paul who is a medical expert.
The occasion was marked to celebrate the World Widows Day, and an Achievement Award was presented to the SSA to the Governor by Soroptimist International ASABA.
