The Niger government has reaffirmed its commitment to widows’ welfare and economic empowerment across the state.

The commissioner for women affairs and social development, Hadiza Kuta, made the pledge in a statement to commemorate the 2026 International Widows’ Day on Tuesday in Minna.

International Widows’ Day is observed globally on June 23 to raise awareness of the challenges widows face and to advocate for their rights, dignity, and well-being.

Ms Kuta said the administration of Governor Umaru Bago, with support from his wife, Mrs Fatima, remained committed to uplifting widows.

She noted that many widows continue to face socio-economic challenges, including poverty, discrimination, social exclusion and limited access to opportunities.

According to the commissioner, adequate support for widows will help preserve their dignity and contribute to the welfare, education and development of their children.

Ms Kuta said the ministry recognised the vital contributions of widows to their families and communities.

She said the government would continue to champion initiatives that improve their livelihoods and overall well-being.

She called on communities, traditional institutions, religious leaders and other stakeholders to work collectively to eliminate harmful practices against widows in the country.

The commissioner called for the protection of widows’ rights and the creation of an environment in which they could live with dignity and realise their full potential.

The commissioner also urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to supporting widows through compassion, inclusion and sustainable empowerment programmes.

She stressed that strengthening support systems for widows would improve their quality of life and contribute significantly to social stability and national development.

(NAN)