The Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA) Foundation, a leading
non-governmental organisation commemorated its 10th anniversary with a high-impact
conference to address the systemic challenges faced by widows and explore
sustainable pathways to empowerment. The conference themed “Empowering Widows
in Nigeria: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and Vulnerability” was held at Eko Hotel and
Suites, Lagos.
Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Amina Oyagbola, Founder and Chairperson of
Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), described widow empowerment as both a
moral obligation and a national priority. She commended the Founder of the CBA
Foundation, Mrs. Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, for turning compassion into a movement
that restores dignity and hope for widows and their children. “Through the CBA
Foundation, you have given courage, confidence, and dignity to countless widows and
children. Your work proves that one person’s vision can transform generations,”
Oyagbola stated.
Acharu Osime, Head of Internal Communications at FirstBank, delivered a goodwill
message on behalf of the Bank. She said “At FirstBank, we are passionate about
supporting platforms that empower individuals and nurture talent. The objectives of the
conference align with our sustainability pillars focused on welfare, diversity and financial
inclusion, so we are excited to be a part of this initiative, supporting one of our own, to
create a more inclusive and supportive environment for widows.”
DigitXplus commended the Foundation’s decade-long impact, describing the conference
as a celebration of resilience and dignity. Representing the company, Damilola Popoola,
Head of Strategy stated, “This event is not just a gathering, it is a testament to the
strength and unyielding spirit of womanhood. Empowerment begins with dignity, and
dignity grows when women are given a voice, a skill, and a chance to dream again. We
at digitXplus remain dedicated to walking the walk with the CBA Foundation.”
Bode-Akinwande expressed gratitude to all partners and attendees, reaffirming the
Foundation’s commitment to continue lighting the path for widows across Nigeria. “We
envision a Nigeria where widowhood is not a sentence to poverty but a pathway to
resilience,” she said. “When we lift a widow, we lift her children, her community, and our
nation.”
The conference featured a dynamic plenary session moderated by seasoned radio host
and communications strategist, Jide Benson. The panel which comprised Etemore
Glover, CEO of Impact Investors Foundation; Abiola Odanye, Head of Operations at
Market Ranch; and Mrs Damilola Hassan, Managing Director of Meristem Trustees
Limited, explored critical issues such as policy advocacy for widows’ rights,
empowerment initiatives, and the support structures needed to overcome the
challenges that widows face.
The event was supported by FirstBank, Vyrus, Eko Hotel, Truecaller, Power Oil, Munch
It, Minimie Noodles, Minimie Chinchin, Kellogg’s, and Colgate, whose contributions
underscored the private sector’s vital role in driving inclusive social change.
