The Mercy Ogbuehi Widows and Orphans Foundation has launched a new vocational training centre in Owerri, Imo State, as part of its ongoing mission to empower widows, orphans, and other vulnerable individuals through skill acquisition and social support. The centre, located at Old Road, Nekede, Owerri, represents a significant milestone in the foundation's efforts to provide sustainable support and economic empowerment to underserved members of society.
Expansion from Lagos to Imo State
Speaking at the inauguration, Friday Ogbuehi, Trustee and Director of the Foundation, described the establishment of the Owerri branch as a major step in the organisation's growth and its determination to reach more people in need. He noted that the foundation's expansion from Lagos, where it has operated successfully for several years, reflects the steady development and strengthening of its humanitarian work. The Owerri centre will replicate the empowerment model already implemented at the Lagos branch, which has grown over the past eight years into a strong training hub for widows and orphans.
Vocational Training and Humanitarian Support
Bridget Chikezirim, another Trustee and Director of the Foundation, explained that the initiative is designed to help widows and orphans overcome economic hardship through practical empowerment. The centre will provide both humanitarian support and vocational training to enable beneficiaries become self-reliant. She appealed to government institutions, corporate organisations, philanthropists, and members of the public to partner with the foundation in expanding its support for widows and orphans.
Community Support Structure: The Cell System
The foundation has also established a community support structure known as "Cells" across Lagos and Ogun States. With 409 widows already trained and empowered, beneficiaries are organised into 22 cells based on their locations to encourage mutual support and collaboration. Each cell is headed by a cell leader, while coordinators oversee activities across the groups to ensure members remain connected and supportive of one another.
Presidential Visits and Graduation Ceremony
The foundation's President, Nnenna Uchegbu, recently visited several cells including Oshodi, Palmgrove, Ikeja Cells One–Four, Alagbado, and Egbeda, bringing her total visits to 17 cells. She encouraged members to continue supporting one another and strengthen the bonds of sisterhood within the community. Additionally, the foundation celebrated the graduation of 46 trainees from its vocational programmes in Lagos, marking another achievement in its ongoing efforts to uplift vulnerable groups.
