By Esther Onyegbula

A non-governmental organization (NGO), Total Life Concern (TLC), has brought joy to 150 widows and their households in Lagos by distributing various food items meant to sustain them for a month.

The event, held on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, saw excited widows and their families receiving food items. Some beneficiaries also received cash gifts, while others were provided with vocational tools.

The convener of the initiative, Barrister Edirin Essiet, explained that the gesture was motivated by the hardships faced by many Nigerians, particularly during the festive season.

“My message to wealthy and compassionate Nigerians out there is that this is the time to show love. This marks the 8th anniversary of our annual widow’s party and empowerment scheme. It is our organization’s way of giving them a sense of belonging during the yuletide season,” Essiet said.

She further stated that celebrating with widows aligns with the current economic realities, which have made it difficult for many widows to feed and provide for their households.

Mrs. Essiet, known for her humanitarian efforts, noted that her love for giving stems from her challenging experiences growing up. “Life wasn’t a bed of roses, and I will continue to give for as long as I live. In our society, things are very hard—some families can’t even afford a meal during the festive period. That’s why we decided to put something on the table for widows who no longer have breadwinners,” she added.

She also called on the government to support their efforts by providing funds or food items to assist more people in need.

Pastor Tobi Popoola of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Lekki Youth Church, Region 3, cautioned Christians against maltreating widows, orphans, and the underprivileged, stressing that such actions attract the wrath of God.

“Today’s event is a reenactment of our covenant with God—that at the end of every year, we will empower widows and the less privileged, bring smiles to their faces, and make them feel valued in society,” he said.

The cleric urged widows to anchor their faith in God, live peaceful and chaste lives, and trust that God would fight for them in all circumstances.

Some beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the founder and the organization for the kind gesture, urging other organizations to emulate TLC’s efforts to make life better for the disadvantaged.

The president of Ajah Women, Mrs. Roseline Ogbeide, said, “Since my husband’s demise, I have received no tangible support from family members, but this organization has been very supportive and helpful to me and my children.”

Ogbeide commended the NGO’s activities, noting that the annual event has significantly improved their lives. She also prayed for the organization to achieve its lofty goals.

Some widows received cash gifts, grinding machines, food items, clothing, and vocational tools.

Uwana Joseph and Funke Akiniyi, two beneficiaries, expressed their gratitude. Uwana said, “I have been praying for help to secure sustainable income for my children, and God has heard my cry. He is indeed the husband of widows.”

Funke Akiniyi, delighted by the event, added, “The joy I feel is contagious. I thank God for this widows’ forum and call on the government to assist by providing funds or food items to help reach more people.”

Essiet concluded by emphasizing that the initiative aims to alleviate the hardship faced by many Nigerians during the festive season, adding, “God is good.”