The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Exploration and Production (NNPC E&P) and Natural Oilfield Services Limited (NOSL), have empowered over 50 widows in Akpadem and Ekim communities, two key oil operational areas in Mkpat Enin, Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The women were given cash token to assist them in their fishing business and to boost their their social and economic condition.
At the event which was held at the First Fruit Hotel in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, the widows were reminded not to see the death of their husbands as the end of life, adding that though, it could push the triggers of poverty for many widows, yet, women must pull themselves together and begin to work their way out of the poverty net.
The Clan Head of Ikpa Ibom, His Royal Highness (HRH) Etebom Moses Ukpong, said; “helping the widows in our communities by NNPC E&P and NOSL is truly commendable and highly appreciated. Such initiative will serve as a stepping stone for their growth and development in the community.”
He said the financial empowerment will undoubtedly play a key role in fostering self-reliance and enable them to face the challenges and other vissicitudes of life.
Principal Cooperative Registrar, Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uduak Etukudo,
said the financial empowerment is “a thoughtful gesture from NNPC E&P and NOSL, as it will create a platform where widow’s voices will be heard and respected.”
She commended the two firms for the assistance which she said will help them overcome lack, achieve financial stability, and self-sufficiency,
“NNPC E&P and NOSL are committed to enhancing livelihood of the widows in the host communities, for a sustained positive transformation,” she said.
Among other dignitaries at the event were HRH Etebom Moses Ukpong, Clan Head of Ikpa Ibom; Mrs. Uduak Etukudo, Principal Cooperative Registrar, Ministry of Women Affairs, Akwa Ibom; Chief Youni Ekamem, Village Head of Akpaden; Eteidung Paulinus J. Udoh, Village Head of Ekim; and Group Captain Etete Ekpo (Rtd.), Senior Base Manager of NOSL, Akwa Ibom State.