The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for stronger legal protections, economic empowerment, and an end to harmful traditional practices against widows as the world marked International Widows Day 2026.
In a statement issued to commemorate the day, NAWOJ said widows across Nigeria continue to face social, economic, and legal challenges, including property grabbing, denial of inheritance rights, stigma, poverty, and psychological trauma.
The association noted that many widows are left vulnerable at a time when they need support the most, depriving them of opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, said International Widows Day serves as a reminder that widows deserve recognition, respect, and inclusion.
“International Widows Day is a reminder that widows are not invisible. They are mothers, entrepreneurs, community builders, and survivors,” she said.
“As journalists, we have a duty to change the narrative from one of pity to one of power, resilience, and inclusion. Governments, traditional institutions, and civil society must enact and enforce laws that safeguard widows’ rights to inheritance, property, and participation. We must also end all forms of harmful traditional practices that degrade and impoverish widows.”
She stressed the need for the full implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and related state laws to protect widows from disinheritance, abuse, and harmful widowhood rites.
The NAWOJ chairperson also advocated targeted skills acquisition programmes, grants, soft loans, and entrepreneurship support to help widows attain financial independence and improve their livelihoods.
According to her, public sensitisation campaigns and responsible media reporting are essential to challenging negative cultural perceptions surrounding widowhood and reducing stigmatization.
The association further highlighted the importance of psychosocial support services, including counselling and mental health care, to help widows cope with grief and trauma.
NAWOJ also urged governments at all levels to generate accurate data on widows to guide the formulation of inclusive policies and effective social protection programmes.
Reaffirming its commitment to advocacy, the association pledged to continue ethical and responsible reportage that amplifies widows’ voices, exposes abuses, and promotes policies that protect their rights and dignity.
“On this International Widows Day, let us commit to building a society where no woman is punished twice — first by loss and then by injustice,” the statement added.
