Christmas season: Borno First Lady Supports 600 Christian Widows with Cash, Food Items
From Alkali Muhammad Maiduguri
First Lady of Borno State, Her Excellency, Associate Professor Falmata Babagana Umara Zulum, has extended support to 600 Christian widows as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas season, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to inclusive social welfare.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, the First Lady described Christmas as a season of compassion, reflection, and shared humanity, explaining that the intervention was designed to ease the burden on vulnerable women while promoting unity and peaceful coexistence across communities.
She disclosed that each beneficiary received ₦50,000 cash, a 25kg bag of rice, a carton of spaghetti, and cooking oil, noting that the gesture, though modest, symbolizes solidarity, dignity, and care for widows who continue to demonstrate resilience despite life’s challenges.
Associate Professor Zulum commended the beneficiaries for their strength and perseverance, describing them as pillars of hope whose faith and endurance inspire society.
She stressed that the initiative reflects the administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of all citizens, regardless of background or belief.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Zuwaira Gambo, praised the First Lady for her compassionate leadership and timely intervention.
She described the initiative as a demonstration of inclusive governance that brings hope and relief to women, children, and families across the state.
Hon. Gambo noted that the programme aligns with the broader transformation witnessed in Borno State under the leadership of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, particularly in the areas of peace, stability, and social welfare.
She added that the return of peace to many communities has enabled families to rebuild their lives and embrace a more secure future.
The Commissioner emphasized that the Christmas support goes beyond material assistance, symbolizing unity, care, and social inclusion, while assuring that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development will continue to partner with the Office of the First Lady to uplift women, protect children, and strengthen families statewide.
Both leaders prayed for peace, comfort, and renewed hope for the beneficiaries, while wishing the people of Borno State a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance.
