The SMILE2025 Widows and Orphans Outreach Programme has launched a new empowerment initiative aimed at equipping widows and young single parents with practical job-creation skills and startup support to help them achieve financial independence.
Under the programme, 1,000 women and girls will receive vocational training, with a major focus on liquid soap production, alongside a ₦50,000 business seed grant to enable them to start or expand small-scale enterprises.
Organisers said the initiative was designed to provide beneficiaries with skills that are affordable, in demand and capable of generating steady income within their communities. “We are focused on simple skills that people can start with little capital and grow over time,” the organisers said.
In addition to liquid soap making, participants will be trained in other income-generating activities, including snacks production, zobo drinks processing, fruits trading and point-of-sale (POS) business operations.
The programme also includes mentorship, financial literacy education and savings advocacy to help beneficiaries manage and grow their businesses sustainably. According to the organisers, “the goal of the SMILE2025 initiative is to empower 1,000 women with both skills and financial support, thereby strengthening families and contributing to broader community development.”
They noted that empowering widows and young single mothers often has a direct impact on children’s welfare, education and overall household stability. “When women are empowered, the benefits extend to their children and the wider community,” they said.
As part of the outreach, free medical services will also be provided to beneficiaries. These include blood pressure checks, glucose and diabetes tests, eye examinations and the distribution of free drugs. Medical professionals and volunteers are expected to support the health component of the programme.
The organisers appealed to individuals, organisations and corporate bodies to support the initiative by donating ₦50,000 to sponsor a woman, sponsoring groups of beneficiaries, providing training equipment, medical consumables or services such as healthcare, mentorship and guidance.
