Yemi Obafemi
Residents of Gosa Community have commended the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) for renovating the home of a vulnerable widow and supporting young girls through mentorship activities to mark International Women’s Day.
The initiative, tagged “Acts of Kindness 3.0 – Give to Gain,” focused on improving living conditions, promoting women’s economic empowerment and mentoring adolescent girls in the community.
As part of the outreach, the organisation renovated the widow’s single-room apartment by repairing a leaking roof, repainting the space and improving the safety and hygiene of the living environment.
Speaking during the event, VNDC Chief Executive Officer, Chika Offor, said the intervention was aimed at providing a healthier and more dignified living environment for the beneficiary and her family.
“Beyond the renovation, the organisation also provided economic empowerment support to help the widow expand her cassava processing business, with the goal of strengthening her financial stability and improving her capacity to cater for her family,” Offor said.
She noted that safe housing conditions play an important role in disease prevention and family wellbeing, adding that women often play central roles in health-related decisions within households.
According to her, empowering women economically and supporting girls’ education and leadership development can help improve family health outcomes and strengthen community resilience.
The beneficiary, identified as Ladi Yellow, expressed gratitude to the organisation for the support and prayed for continued success for the group. She also pledged to make good use of the assistance provided.
Community members also praised the initiative. A pastor in the community, Musa Ishaya, urged other Nigerians to support vulnerable people in society.
An artiste and songwriter, Somadina Onuoha, said the renovated home represents “safety, dignity and a fresh beginning” for the widow.
“Today is a very special day for our community. Today we celebrate more than just a house, we are celebrating care, unity and the power of a community coming together,” she said.
