Thirty-five widows from across Abia State have received newly constructed three-bedroom bungalows through a housing support programme spearheaded by the wife of the state governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti.
The homes were provided under the “Dignity Homes” initiative, with two housing units allocated to each of the 17 Local Government Areas in the state.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony held in Ahieke, Umuahia North Local Government Area, Mrs Otti said the project was created to improve the welfare of vulnerable women and give them a renewed sense of hope.
According to her, the initiative is not only about shelter but also about restoring dignity to widows who had been living in difficult conditions. She noted that some of the beneficiaries faced severe hardship before receiving the homes, stressing that residents of the state deserve better living conditions.
She added that while the administration of Governor Alex Otti is focused on infrastructure development in sectors such as roads, education, and healthcare, support for vulnerable members of society remains equally important.
Mrs Otti also appealed to private individuals, faith-based organisations, companies, and development partners to collaborate with the government in providing assistance to less privileged citizens.
Officials present at the event, including the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghukwa, and the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Vulnerable Groups, Mrs Blessing Felix, described the programme as a significant move toward promoting social inclusion and restoring dignity to vulnerable women.
They praised the governor and his wife for what they described as compassionate leadership focused on the welfare of the people.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief Okezie Mmeregini, and the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, commended the project, saying it demonstrated the administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable residents.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Policies and Interventions, Dr Christian Anokwuru, explained that the houses were shared equally among the local government areas, with one additional unit provided under special consideration to ensure fairness and inclusiveness.
Some beneficiaries, including Mrs Stella Ukaegbu and Mrs Mabel Eleuo, expressed appreciation for the gesture, describing it as life-changing and a source of renewed hope for their families.