Ibadan: A non-governmental organisation, Channel for Widow Relief Initiative (CWRI), has successfully empowered over 380 widows, orphans, and less privileged individuals in Ibadan by providing them with cash and food items.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the empowerment initiative took place during CWRI’s 15th edition of the Ramadan Giveaway and Empowerment programme. Among the 380 beneficiaries, 10 orphan students received financial educational support, textbooks, and school bags, while 20 widows were granted N100,000 each in cash. The remaining 350 widows and less privileged individuals were given food items to assist them during this period.
The CWRI Executive Director, Alhaja Fadhilah Balogun, explained that her personal experiences as a widow inspired the establishment of the organisation, which has since become a crucial support system for hundreds of widows and orphans. She emphasized that the distribution of food, cash, clothing, and educational materials is aimed at providing life, hope, and a future for the beneficiaries. Over the years, CWRI has consistently supported families during Ramadan, Eid, and other significant times, ensuring that no widow or orphan goes hungry.
Balogun also announced the upcoming 2026 Ramadan donation initiative, which aims to support 800 widows and orphans with cash grants ranging between N100,000 and N200,000 to help them start businesses. She called on Nigerians to support the organisation, assuring that all donations would directly benefit the widows and orphans who rely on them for survival and empowerment.
The CWRI Board of Director Chairperson, Alhaja Muslimat Salau, highlighted the importance of providing palliatives to widows during Ramadan to alleviate their suffering. She noted that the organisation’s ability to do more is hindered by limited funds.
In a lecture during the event, Dr. Shakirat Olanlege encouraged widows to remain prayerful and strive for success, seeing their challenges as part of life’s journey rather than its end. Mrs. Oladiti Sidikat, one of the N100,000 cash beneficiaries, shared her story of losing her husband 25 years ago and being the sole provider for her children.