ABIA FIRST LADY PLEDGES STRONGER PARTNERSHIP AS CDOWA SEEKS SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN’S WELFARE

The First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the welfare of women and children across the state following a courtesy visit by the Civil Defence Officers’ Wives Association (CDOWA), Abia State Chapter.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, brought together key members of the association and the Office of the First Lady in a meeting focused on collaboration, humanitarian service, and sustainable support for vulnerable groups.

The CDOWA delegation was led by the Desk Officer, Mrs. Rita Nwaogu, who represented the State Chairperson, Princess Mrs. Alice Akinsola. During the meeting, Mrs. Nwaogu provided an overview of the association’s ongoing activities and humanitarian interventions across Abia State.

She highlighted several social intervention programs initiated by the association, including outreach efforts to widows, indigent families, and underserved communities. According to her, CDOWA has remained steadfast in its mission to complement the efforts of government and other stakeholders by providing relief materials, moral support, and empowerment opportunities to women and children in need.

Mrs. Nwaogu noted that the association’s initiatives are designed not only to offer immediate assistance but also to promote long-term stability and self-reliance among beneficiaries. She emphasized that the wives of Civil Defence officers remain committed to supporting their communities despite the demanding responsibilities of their spouses in ensuring public safety and security.

In her response, Mrs. Otti warmly welcomed the delegation and commended CDOWA for its consistency and dedication to humanitarian service. She described the association’s work as impactful and aligned with her office’s vision of building a more inclusive and compassionate Abia State.

The First Lady assured the group of her readiness to collaborate closely with CDOWA in advancing programs that protect and empower women and children. She pledged to integrate the association into relevant state-led initiatives, particularly those targeting maternal health, child protection, girl-child education, and economic empowerment for women.

Mrs. Otti reiterated that sustainable development begins with strengthening families and protecting the most vulnerable members of society. She encouraged the association to continue its noble work and assured them that her office would remain open to partnerships that drive meaningful change.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about future collaborations. The Secretary of the association, Mrs. Deborah Ikenna, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the First Lady for the warm reception and encouraging words.

She reaffirmed CDOWA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift women and children, noting that the visit marked the beginning of a stronger partnership between the association and the state government.

The delegation expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the First Lady and conveyed confidence that the renewed partnership would further strengthen humanitarian efforts across Abia State.

Onyebuchi Juliet Nwabu
FIC Correspondent, NSCDC
12th February 2026