Hardship: USA based group decries inflation, empowers Widows in Nasarawa

From Abel Zwànke, Lafia

A humanitarian group on the aegis of Zumunta Association USA has decried the high rate of inflation in Nigeria and however, empowered a great number of widows to reduce sufferings.

The Nations News Nigeriareports that the Widows across Nasarawa Eggon, Akwanga, and Wamba Local Government Areas in Nasarawa State, received food assistance to help alleviate the economic challenges facing Nigerians.

It was gathered that the empowerment was done in collaboration with the Awadzi Center for Empowerment and Education (ACEE Foundation).

The initiative, aimed at addressing the rising cost of living caused by inflation and declining incomes, saw widows receiving 10kg bags of rice to support their families.

The National President of Zumunta Association USA and Founder of the ACC Foundation Mr. Sunday Bitrus, in a statement signed and issued to newsmen emphasized the need to support vulnerable groups, especially widows, who often shoulder the burden of raising families alone under challenging circumstances.

“As a community, we must rise together to support those who are most in need. Widows are often overlooked, yet they carry the burden of sustaining their families under immense pressure,” he said.

“This effort is a demonstration of our collective responsibility to support widows and those in need. Zumunta Association USA remains committed to humanitarian causes that uplift our people.”

ACEE Foundation, a key partner in the initiative, reaffirmed its dedication to empowering marginalized groups. A representative of the foundation noted, “Working with Zumunta Association USA has further strengthened our resolve to touch lives positively. This partnership shows the power of collective action in addressing societal challenges.”

Mr. Sunday who is also a native of Nasarawa state further noted that the “ACEE Foundation is also currently running the SBA Merit Scholarship program for students of computer science, medicine and surgery, and engineering for all students from Nasarawa State who are qualified.”

Beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance, describing it as timely and impactful. Mrs. Abigail Audu, a widow from Nasarawa Eggon, shared her appreciation. “This support means a lot to us. It shows that we are not forgotten in these tough times,” she said.

Mrs. Edward Mary from Akwanga echoed similar sentiments. “The timing of this distribution is perfect. It will go a long way in helping us widows,” she remarked. “I deeply appreciate the Awadzi Foundation for what they are doing during this period.”

Community leaders also lauded the initiative for its focus on meeting the basic needs of widows and their families, particularly during the festive season.

The initiative highlights the critical role of community organizations and partnerships in addressing the gaps left by economic challenges, offering hope and support to the most vulnerable.