BENIN CITY: The Osechioya Widows Ministry at the weekend marked the second edition of its outreach programme themed, “God is the Husband of the Widows” with the presentation of food support and health counselling to 70 widows in Benin City

The initiative, led by its convener, Mrs Esther Irabor, was held as part of activities to demonstrate love and restore hope among vulnerable women in Edo State.

Speaking at the event, Irabor said that the ministry was born out of a divine calling she received about two decades ago, but could not immediately pursue due to lack of funds and structure.

She explained that what began as informal gatherings of between five and seven widows in the home of one of them in 2021 gradually evolved into a full-fledged ministry, formally inaugurated on November 29, 2025.

According to her, 60 widows were empowered at the official launch in November 2025, while 70 beneficiaries were reached during the Valentine’s Day edition.

“Our vision is to give hope to helpless widows,” she said, noting that the ministry’s guiding scripture is Joshua 1:5, which she described as her personal watchword during a difficult period of widowhood in her early years.

Irabor lamented the plight of many widows, particularly younger ones who struggle to provide adequate nutrition and care for their children.

She said the outreach was designed not only to provide material support, but also to restore their sense of belonging and dignity within society.

She disclosed that the ministry is sustained by contributions from donors both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.

She appealed to individuals, corporate organisations and government agencies to partner with the group in supporting indigent widows, stressing that collaboration would help improve their living conditions and long-term prospects.

The event also featured praise, worship and prayer sessions led by Evangelist Mrs Victoria Agbonta, General Overseer of Endless Life Gospel Church, also known as Settle Down Ministry, as participants expressed gratitude and renewed hope.