By Dayo Johnson, Akure

The Bulgarian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yanko Yordanov, has lauded a non-governmental organization, HEART for Widows International, for prioritizing widows’ welfare through numerous programs and initiatives.

Yordanov who was on a two-day visit to Akure, the Ondo State capital, Ambassador Yordanov praised the organization’s efforts in supporting widows across Nigeria.

He lauded the HEART for Widows International for creating job opportunities through self-empowerment programs, including the establishment of a four-star hotel where many widows are employed.

While touring the premises of Akure Airport Hotel at Oba-Ile, Akure North, where he was hosted, Ambassador Yordanov lauded Mrs. Britt Schulze-Adesida and Prince Adetayo Adesida, the proprietors of the organization, for their outstanding initiatives that bring joy and smiles to the widows’ faces.

At a meeting with the widows’ group at the palace of the Akapinsa of Ipinsa, Oba Omoniyi Olufunmilayo, Ambassador Yordanov expressed his gratitude to the king for hosting HEART for Widows International in his town.

Oba Olufunmilayo said that the organization’s work has inspired the Bulgarian Embassy to host an event to support and showcase HEART for Widows products.

 Additionally, another event, inspired by the one at the Bulgarian Embassy, was hosted at the Argentinian Embassy with the ambassadors’ spouses in Abuja.

The Ambassador also appreciated the monarch for installing him as the “Baba Mayegun” of Ipinsa Land, recognizing his love for culture.

During his visit to the widows’ training center and shop, where they sell crafts produced by themselves and colleagues from other countries, Ambassador Yordanov noted the organization’s significant impact.

HEART for Widows International is registered in several countries, including the USA, Germany, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, India, Lesotho, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

Additionally, awareness campaigns have been conducted in Nepal, Mozambique, Seychelles, Uganda, and Kenya.

Listening to the testimonies of some of the widows, Ambassador Yordanov commended their resilience and noted the admirable spirit and qualities of Nigerians.

He emphasized the need for continued support for organizations like HEART for Widows International to further their mission of improving widows’ welfare.

While visiting the HEART for Widows farm, where beneficiaries work to make ends meet, the Ambassador acknowledged Nigeria’s fertile soil and encouraged the women to continue their efforts, especially in cocoa farming.

At a dinner party organized by HEART for Widows International at Akure Airport Hotel, attended by female monarchs from various communities in Ondo State, the founders, Chief Mrs. Britt Adesida and Prince Adetayo Adesida, urged the monarchs to support the organization by providing farmlands and shops for vulnerable widows in their areas.

Ambassador Yordanov highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Bulgaria, emphasizing cultural, economic, and educational collaborations.

He elaborated on the cultural values and similarities between the two countries and sought further cooperation.