The Wife of the Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has launched a grassroots empowerment initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable women and elderly residents as the country enters the New Year.
The programme, held in the Agassa/Ateba community of Okene, was delivered on behalf of the First Lady by her Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs, Hon. Aliyu Ohunene Nana.
The outreach is part of a broader “renewed hope” message from the state government, designed to ease economic pressures on households during the festive transition into 2026.
Support for vulnerable groups
The initiative specifically targeted several high-priority groups within the community to ensure inclusive development. Beneficiaries included:
- Widows and the elderly: Receiving direct assistance to strengthen household resilience.
- Petty traders: Provided with support to encourage self-reliance in the local economy.
- Persons with special needs: Included in the distribution to ensure no group is left behind.
Items distributed during the exercise included essential foodstuffs and cash gifts, providing what local leaders described as “timely relief” as the year draws to a close.
A ‘deliberate effort’ for 2026
Speaking at the event, Hon. Nana emphasised that the intervention was more than just a seasonal gesture. She described it as a “deliberate effort” by the First Lady to stand with the people during a critical economic period and inspire hope for a prosperous 2026.
“True empowerment is achieved when support translates into improved livelihoods and sustainable independence,” Nana told the gathered crowd, urging beneficiaries to use the cash and supplies judiciously.
Community reaction
The Agassa/Ateba community responded with gratitude, offering prayers for the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
Community leaders noted that such humanitarian programmes are a vital source of encouragement for households struggling with the current cost of living. The First Lady’s office has reassured citizens that similar interventions will be rolled out across other parts of Kogi State in the coming weeks.
Add Comment