By Rita Chioma,

Social activist and Women Arise founder, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin commended the philanthropic efforts of the founder of Queen Blessing Foundation, actress, Blessing Ebigieson at the Military Widows Empowerment Valentine special programme, which held on February 14 at the Ikeja Military Cantonment.

The activist who was given an humanitarian award along with the founder of God Bless Nigeria, Pastor Tony Rapu, said that the community was in dire need of ordinary people with the golden hearts like Queen Blessing Ebigieson as a lot of needs could be met by caring hearts.

Scores of widows from the Nigeria Army of Officers Wives Association, NAOWA and their Navy and Air force military counterpart were feted at the 10th anniversary of the foundation and the 5th edition of Valentine special.

A day skill acquisition on bag making, bead making and shoe making using local fabrics was carried out by Ambassador Chibuzor Patrick aka Oluchi, before the valentine empowerment event.

Out of the few women that participated, the first sewing machine was won by the woman who made a bag from her experience in the training.

Mr Jimi Agbaje, patron of the foundation was present to present wrappers and other gift items to the widows.

Colleagues of the movie producer from Okpella Edo State could not hide their excitement as they came in droves to support their own.

Actresses like Grace Amah, Doris Simeon, Ejiro Okurame,  Gloria Mba and broadcaster Monalisa all appeared in the white T-shirt for the occasion showing their solidarity for Queen Blessing.

Ace comedy actor, Victor Osuagwu was recognised by the audience and army personnel as they kept taking pictures with him.

Mr Osuagwu said, “I thank God for Queen Blessing and her good heart to support the widows. It is not easy to give and give to the widows and less privileged. It is a good thing to be alive. We should thank God that we are alive to see this day”. 

The convener noted that eighty percent of the materials came from her purse as she is passionate about plight of widows and wishes to do more but for lack of funds and support.

 In his closing remark, the Brigadier General A. E Attu congratulated Queen Blessing for the wonderful jobs done for their wives.