By Johnson Adebowale
A non-denominational Christian group, the Comfort Widows Relief and Empowerment Initiative, recently distributed food items to over 500 widows in the Ajegunle community of Lagos State. Led by, convener, Nneoma Amanefula, the initiative aims to alleviate the hardships faced by widows, including social stigma and economic challenges.
Amanefula, herself a widow, founded the organization in 2015 after receiving a divine instruction. “I lost my husband in 2015, and God instructed me to ‘go and comfort the widows,'” she recounted.
The initiative offers comprehensive support, including regular food drives to address immediate needs; weekly meetings to provide counselling, prayers and spiritual nourishment; empowering widows with vocational skills for economic independence and providing legal support to widows facing property disputes or other legal challenges.
Amanefula highlighted the unique challenges faced by widows in Nigeria, including social discrimination and exploitation. “Widows often face deprivation and even harassment from close family members,” she lamented.
The initiative, which began with a small group, has grown significantly, impacting the lives of many widows and their children. Amanefula encouraged well-meaning Nigerians to support the cause and contribute to improving the lives of widows in their communities.
“Rebuilding the country needs collective effort,” she emphasized, while acknowledging the challenges of the organization.
“Through our weekly meetings, we receive counselling and pray for ourselves, our children, and grandchildren,” shared one beneficiary. “The word of God we are fed with during meetings is enough succour for us,” added another.
The group serves as a beacon of hope for widows in Ajegunle, offering a lifeline of support and a pathway to a brighter future.