First Lady Designate of Akwa Ibom, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, on Boxing Day, hosted 10 widows each from the 11 wards in her maiden hometown, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
Held in Ikot Ekpene Udo yesterday, the brief ceremony featured the presentation of rice, wrappers, and cash gifts by the First Lady Designate to benefit widows.
In her remarks, Lady Obareki extended warm Christmas wishes to the beneficiaries, emphasising the importance of community support during the festive season.
She reaffirmed the commitment of her father, the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to providing care for those in need.
“Merry Christmas everyone. This end of year, with the support of His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, I came to meet with some widows of all of the wards in Nsit Ubium Local Government just to share a Christmas package with you.
“I know that His Excellency already sent rice to all the villages in Akwa Ibom State, but this is in addition because I know that you are carrying the responsibilities of your homes, now that your husbands are no more,” Lady Obareki stated.
Acknowledging the Governor’s compassionate leadership style as translated in the numerous humanitarian gestures, she said the additional support would address the unique challenges faced by the widows in taking on the primary responsibilities of their various families.
Lady Obareki, however, encouraged the widows to continue to pray for the good health and prosperity of the Governor and the state.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to Governor Umo Eno and the First Lady Designate over the unsolicited gifts, saying it will go a long way to cushion their suffering as Widows in the LGA.
Among them were Mrs Owoidoho Nwanekong Ekpo from Ikot Eyo, Ubium North 1; Mrs Eno Innocent from Ikot Ossom, Ubium Ward 2; Mrs Ndianabasi Isaac from Ikot Imo, Ibiakpan Obotim Ward 1; Mrs Elizabeth Etim Akpan from Ikot Iyire, Itreto Ward; and Mrs Patience John Eduok from Ndiya.
They expressed appreciation for the thoughtful gifts provided during the yuletide season, especially as they have faced significant challenges in raising their children since the passing of their husbands.
They prayed for the blessings of God upon the Governor and the First Lady Designate, seeking divine protection and wisdom throughout their tenure.
