From TCNEWS
In a powerful display of faith-driven social action, over 200 widows received vital empowerment support during a landmark outreach hosted by the Women’s Wing of the Lay Presidents’ Council of the Methodist Church Nigeria, held Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Umuahia, Abia State.
The event, marking the 40th anniversary of the Lay Presidents’ Council drew delegates from over 118 dioceses across Nigeria and featured a host of distinguished speakers, faith leaders, and government representatives. It was a convergence of compassion, spiritual leadership, and strategic empowerment under the theme: “When Women Arise.”
Representing the wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, was the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Prof. Mrs. Ijeoma Iheukwumere, who conveyed the First Lady’s message of solidarity and support to the widows.
“Your dedication to humanitarian work and empowerment programs for women and widows is truly inspiring. The impact of your work goes beyond the material support you provide; it brings hope, comfort, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.
“As the Abia First Lady, I’m proud to partner with you, providing support in the form of funds and food items. Together, we’re making a tangible difference in the lives of these widows. Our support today will undoubtedly bring relief and joy to these women. Our little support will at least help them meet their basic needs, provide for their families, and regain a sense of dignity this period.
“The impact of this support can not be overstated. It will serve as a profound reminder that they are not forgotten, that they are valued members of our society, and that there are people who care.
“To the widows, I want to say: you are seen, you are heard, and you are valued. Your struggles are acknowledged, and your resilience is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. May this empowerment program bring you comfort, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. May it remind you that you are not alone, that there are people who care about your well-being, and that you are worthy of love, care, and support.
“As we celebrate this milestone, I encourage the women of the Methodist Church to continue their outstanding work. Keep shining your light, empowering women and widows, and serving the less privileged. Your efforts are crucial to the well-being of our state and society. By working together, we can create a brighter future for all, a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, to grow, and to reach their full potential.
“In Abia State, we share your commitment to uplifting the vulnerable. We believe that by partnering with religious organizations like yours, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our citizens. I urge you to keep partnering with us, sharing your ideas, and leveraging your influence to drive positive change”, Mrs. Otti stated. “We stand with you not only with words but with action, through support, food items, and partnership with the Church.”
Highlighting the Church’s scriptural foundation in service, Mrs. Otti referenced 1 Timothy 5:3: “Honour widows who are truly in need,” praising the leadership of Dame Dr. Ngozi Okechukwu, Wife of the Conference Lay President, and other women leaders for their tireless efforts in lifting up the vulnerable.
The keynote address by Dr. Chioma Ibezim, a theologian and educationist, challenged attendees to rise above societal divisions and gossip, urging women to model unity and maturity, particularly in their homes.
“Marriage is not defined by material things but by intentional nurturing and spiritual direction,” Dr. Ibezim emphasized. “We must raise the next generation to walk in purpose and truth.”
She addressed the breakdown of family values, maternal deprivation, and loss of parental influence, calling on mothers to rise and lead with wisdom, patience, and vision.
In another impactful keynote titled “The Triple Mastery: Starting a Business, Staying Strong, and Keeping the Home,” business executive Nneoma Johnson Chukwu, MD of VirginForest Energy Ltd., delivered practical insights on balancing entrepreneurship with family and faith.
“True success comes from resilience, innovation, and integrity. But above all, let God be the foundation of your business and home,” she told hundreds of women in attendance.
Chukwu advised women to embrace purpose-driven businesses and maintain a long-term view toward sustainable growth, encouraging them to raise godly families even as they strive for financial independence.
Deaconess Maria Ali Aba, Wife of the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, urged women to stay spiritually clean and alert in a time marked by insecurity and moral decay.
“Too much worry brings illness. Pray, stay active, and find something meaningful to do,” she encouraged the widows, drawing from Isaiah 58:11.
In her welcome address, Dame Dr. Ngozi Okechukwu described the widows’ outreach as a “divine mandate” anchored in biblical teachings.
“Even in grief, resurrection is possible,” she said, quoting John 11:23, urging the widows not to lose hope.
Dr. Okechukwu expressed gratitude to the Church, partners, and Abia State Government for their contributions to the program. The empowerment items distributed included food supplies, clothing, and seed funds for small businesses.
A key presentation by Ezinne Pauline Anyanwa, from Uzuakoli Diocese emphasized the biblical and practical roles of Lay Presidents’ wives in strengthening Church life.
“We are co-labourers in God’s vineyard. From empowerment to mentoring and intercessory prayer, every wife has a divine role to fulfill,” she said, citing Isaiah 6:8 and Ephesians 4:16.
She highlighted how Lay Presidents’ wives can serve as mentors, project drivers, fundraisers, and spiritual guides, urging them to work in unity with bishops’ wives and support rural parishes.
The event reflects a rising intersection of faith, leadership, and social action in Nigeria, particularly in how women-led religious institutions are addressing poverty and inequality. By focusing on widowhood, a deeply stigmatized and underrepresented issue this initiative not only aligns with global SDG goals on gender and poverty but also presents a model of partnership between government and faith-based organizations. It underscores the power of women-led transformation, resilience, and the enduring relevance of community-driven empowerment in building inclusive societies.
Several widows who benefited from the outreach, including Mrs. Gloria Iromalo, Onyinye Ibeh, Felicia Nwaokafor, and Gladys Ochondu, expressed their gratitude for the initiative.
“This gift has restored my hope,” said Mrs. Ibeh. “For the first time in years, I feel remembered and valued.”
The event was graced by the Archbishop of Umuahia Archdiocese, The Most Rev. Chibuzo Opoko, and his wife, alongside Church leaders, government representatives, and grassroots women leaders.
