Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for stronger protection and economic empowerment for widows as the country marks International Widows’ Day 2026.
In a message, yesterday, to mark the day and reflect on the theme: “Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows – The African Perspectives,” Mrs. Tinubu urged renewed support for widows across Nigeria, Africa and the world. “Today, on International Widows’ Day 2026, I urge us to reaffirm our support for widows across Nigeria, Africa, and the world as we reflect on this year’s theme.”
She said widows deserve to live “free from discrimination, harmful practices, poverty, and exclusion,” and called for laws that uphold their rights.
Other News
She added that widows must be empowered through education, access to opportunities, and economic support so they can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
“In Africa, we must do away with harmful traditional practices that are dehumanising to widows,” the First Lady said, emphasising the need to eliminate cultural practices that marginalise bereaved women.
She also stressed the role of society and policy in safeguarding widows’ welfare, saying: “We must continue to promote compassion, inclusion, and policies that protect widows for a safer and more prosperous society. The society should empower widows to be able to provide for their families.”
International Widows’ Day, observed annually on June 23, draws attention to the plight of tens of millions of widows worldwide who face economic hardship, social stigma and legal disenfranchisement.
