Ogun Widows Get New Platform As Wazobia Association Opens State Chapter

A new support network for widows is taking shape in Ogun State as the Wazobia Widows Welfare Association prepares to inaugurate its state chapter, with a strong commitment to ensuring that women who have lost their husbands are supported regardless of their ethnic background or state of origin.

The Ogun chapter will be formally launched on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, with the programme scheduled to begin at 10:00am.

The initiative, which operates under the motto “God is our strength,” is designed to provide widows with welfare assistance, advocacy, empowerment opportunities and a stronger voice in dealing with challenges that often follow the loss of a spouse.

Unlike organisations built around a particular ethnic or geographical identity, the Wazobia Widows Welfare Association is positioning the Ogun chapter as an inclusive platform. Its support is intended for Nigerian widows irrespective of tribe, ethnicity, state of origin or background.

The association believes that losing a husband can expose women to several layers of hardship, from the immediate loss of income and emotional support to difficulties raising children, securing accommodation, finding employment and maintaining a stable livelihood.

Beyond financial difficulties, widows may also encounter social discrimination, family disputes, inheritance challenges and harmful cultural practices. Some are subjected to customs that undermine their dignity or restrict their ability to make decisions about property, children and their own future.

The association’s objective is to help address these challenges by combining welfare with empowerment. Rather than only providing temporary assistance, it seeks to encourage programmes that can help widows develop sustainable sources of income and regain greater independence.

The movement has also attracted the support of Temitope Adeola, wife of Ogun State politician Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, who has contributed to and supported the cause as the association expands its advocacy and empowerment drive.

At the national level, Ambassador Dr. Binta Adejoke serves as the Director-General, while Professor Lola George is the National General Secretary.

The South West arm is headed by Hon. Dr. Omoniyi Ogbodo-Bach, who serves as the Regional Director and oversees the association’s activities within the zone.

In Ogun State, the organisation is led by Pastor (Mrs.) Adesola Oluwatoyin Oyebade, the State Coordinator. Working with her are Ambassador Oluwakemi Abiodun Soyebi (JP), State Deputy Coordinator, and Pastor (Mrs.) Philomena Kayode, State General Secretary.

The executives are expected to use the inauguration to mobilise greater public attention and support for widows while laying the foundation for programmes focused on welfare, skills development, economic empowerment and advocacy.

The organisers believe that supporting widows should not be viewed simply as an act of charity. They argue that helping widows overcome economic and social barriers can also improve the welfare of their children and strengthen families and communities.

The Ogun chapter is therefore expected to serve as a grassroots platform where widows can connect with one another, access available support and have their concerns brought to the attention of relevant stakeholders.

The association is also calling for greater involvement from government, traditional institutions, private organisations, philanthropists and individuals in creating opportunities that can improve the lives of widows.

With the Ogun inauguration approaching, the message from the Wazobia Widows Welfare Association remains one of inclusion: a widow’s need for support does not depend on the tribe she comes from.

The September 4 event at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, is expected to mark the beginning of a broader effort to ensure that widows living in Ogun State can access a support system dedicated to restoring dignity, creating opportunities and giving them renewed confidence to move forward.

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