The first lady-designate of Akwa Ibom, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, on Boxing Day received 10 widows from each of the 11 wards of her hometown, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
The brief ceremony, held yesterday at Ikot Ekpene Udo, saw the presentation of rice, wrappers and cash gifts by the First Lady Designated to benefit the widows.
In her remarks, Lady Obareki extended warm Christmas wishes to the beneficiaries, emphasizing the importance of community support during the festive season.
He reaffirmed the commitment of his father, the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to provide care to those in need.
“Merry Christmas everyone. This end of the year, with the support of His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, I came to meet some widows from all the wards in Nsit Ubium local government just to share a Christmas package with you.
“I know that Your Excellency has already sent rice to all the villages in Akwa Ibom State, but this is also because I know that you are taking on the responsibilities of your households, now that your husbands are no more,” Lady Obareki said.
Acknowledging the Governor's compassionate leadership style translated into numerous humanitarian gestures, he said additional support would address the unique challenges widows face in assuming primary responsibilities for their diverse families.
Lady Obareki, however, encouraged the widows to continue praying for the good health and prosperity of the governor and the state.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Governor Umo Eno and the First Lady Designate for the unsolicited gifts, saying it will go a long way in cushioning their suffering as widows in the LGA.
They included Mrs. Owoidoho Nwanekong Ekpo of Ikot Eyo, Ubium North 1; Mrs. Eno Innocent of Ikot Ossom, Ubium Ward 2; Mrs. Ndianabasi Isaac of Ikot Imo, Ibiakpan Obotim Ward 1; Mrs. Elizabeth Etim Akpan of Ikot Iyire, Itreto Ward; and Mrs. Patience John Eduok of Ndiya.
They expressed their gratitude for the thoughtful gifts given during the holiday season, especially as they have faced significant challenges in raising their children since the passing of their husbands.
They prayed for God's blessings on the Governor and First Lady Designate, seeking divine protection and wisdom during their tenure.