The Civil Defence Officers’ Wives Association (CDOWA) FCT command chapter has reached to 450 widows of fallen heroes and gallant officers and men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) through a food distribution and empowerment program in Abuja.
Abuja Times reports that the gesture marked the third outreach initiative undertaken by CDOWA in the FCT Command over the past two years, underscoring their commitment to supporting members and their families.
Mrs. Bolanle Olayinka Odumosu, Chairperson of CDOWA FCT and wife of the FCT Commandant, who spoke at the event stressed the essence of the outreach – to foster love, unity, and mutual support within the NSCDC community.
“As wives, mothers, and partners to NSCDC officers, we understand the importance of standing together, especially in challenging times,” she said.
The program aimed not only to provide essential food items but also to empower beneficiaries with knowledge to thrive as wives and mothers.
Mrs. Odumosu expressed gratitude to Food Bank Naija for partnering with CDOWA on this initiative and appealed for future collaborations to further support their members. She encouraged attendees to embrace both physical nourishment and mental and emotional empowerment, stressing that women are the backbone of families and communities.
“We must think creatively and explore new opportunities. Let us use what we learnt today to forge new paths, build stronger families, and uplift one another,” she urged.
Kingsley Nnaji, CEO of Food Bank Naija, highlighted the stark reality of hunger in Nigeria, affecting millions and hindering potential. He believes sharing food shares hope and can transform lives, fueling dreams and restoring dignity. Food Bank Naija has pledged monthly food support to widows of CDOWA FCT chapter, reflecting their dedication to breaking the cycle of hunger.
The event, themed “Women and Economic Survival: Creative Paths to Family Sustainability,” featured a lecture empowering women to navigate economic challenges creatively and resiliently, aligning with CDOWA’s sustained commitment to welfare and empowerment.