Empowering Widows Nationwide through Renewed Hope Programme
Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman‑Ibrahim
On International Widows Day 2025 (June 23) in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman‑Ibrahim, launched a bold series of interventions under the Renewed Hope Social Impact Programme aimed at protecting and empowering over 15 million widows across the country
Key Interventions & Their Benefits
1. WAVE Project
Widows and female farmers will gain access to land, agricultural tools, extension services, and markets, helping them build sustainable livelihoods
2. Free Health Coverage
Enrollees will receive one year of NHIS coverage, ensuring access to essential healthcare at no cost .
3. Financial Inclusion & Digital Empowerment
Widows will be registered in the National Identity Scheme, onboarded onto the Happy Woman App (for welfare services and empowerment), and partnered with banks like Premium Trust Bank to access financial services and digital banking.
4. Direct Grants & Business Boost
At the Abuja event, 250 widows received ₦20,000 grants, had bank accounts opened, and were equipped with digital and vocational skills training
5. Literacy & Protection
Widows are encouraged to enroll in adult literacy programs to improve economic autonomy. The Minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing the VAPP Act to combat harmful widowhood traditions and violence.
“A widow’s cry echoes through silent nights, yet her spirit does not break… She is not weak. She is the soul of resilience.”
— The Minister, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman‑Ibrahim
How This Benefits Nigerians
Agricultural livelihoods: Female farmers gain resources and market access, boosting income and food production.
Health security: NHIS coverage removes cost barriers, preserving the wellbeing of widows and their dependents.
Digital empowerment: Inclusion in the digital economy and access to welfare services via an app fosters independence.
Financial stability: Grants and banking services pave the way for entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Legal and educational empowerment: Laws protect widows’ rights; adult literacy provides life-enhancing skills.
This comprehensive intervention transforms widowhood from vulnerability into empowerment. Through healthcare, finance, education, agriculture, and legal protection, this initiative equips millions of widows to regain dignity, resilience, and economic stability—lifting entire communities through the process.
