Aligning with the #IWD2026 theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” we are taking concrete steps to protect and empower vulnerable women, particularly widows.

On March 8, 2026, International Women’s Day, I was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, UNJP, at the commissioning of a new home built by the Widows Aid Foundation.

The “Widow Aid House Project” is a humanitarian intervention providing safe shelter for Mrs. Adaona Ekwonu, a young mother of four. Since losing her husband four years ago, Mrs. Ekwonu has faced economic hardship whilst raising her children in unstable living conditions. Recognizing her resilience, the Widows Aid Foundation constructed a decent home for her in Naze, Owerri.

I commend Ambassador Iroh Faithful, Director of the Widows Aid Foundation, for his dedication to vulnerable families and collaboration with the Government. The foundation also presented me with a humanitarian award in recognition of my outstanding support for humanity. This project calls all well-meaning Imolites to partner with the Government, NGOs, and foundations. Addressing the challenges in our state requires collective effort; the Government cannot do it alone.

Mrs. Ekwonu expressed gratitude, praising God for the support and praying for blessings upon My Office and the Widows Aid Foundation. She celebrated the “housewarming” gift and her new home with songs of praise. The Commissioner was accompanied by Mrs. Nwokeji Chinwe, Hon. Mrs. Chimara Maureen, Hon. Mrs. Uju Jennifer, and Ezinne Amadi Chioma.

#IWD2026 #RightsJusticeAction #ForAllWomenandGirls

#ChiomaUzodimma

Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, FIMC, CMC
First Lady of Imo State,
GoodHope Women Flourish Initiative,
Secretary, Renewed Hope Initiative and
Chairperson, First Ladies Against Cancer