COWA Onne Chapter Chairlady Empowers Widows, Supports Orphanages to Mark New Year
In a heartfelt gesture to usher in the New Year, the Chairlady of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Onne Chapter, Hajiya Amina Aliyu Babandede, organised a philanthropic outreach that left widows, less privileged individuals, and orphanages in high spirits.
The event, held at the Customs House, Onne, showcased the association’s commitment to community welfare and empowerment.
The Chairlady distributed essential food items, including bags of rice, cartons of instant noodles, and bottles of cooking oil, to orphanages and disadvantaged members of society.
Additionally, she empowered 40 widows by donating grinding mills and sewing machines, providing them with tools to enhance their economic independence.
In her address, Hajiya Babandede expressed her appreciation to the President of COWA, Mrs Kekilemo Adeniyi, FPMC, for her steadfast support and dedication to the association’s cause.
She also extended gratitude to her husband, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, the Customs Area Controller, for his encouragement and unwavering support for COWA Onne Chapter’s initiatives.
The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including the Customs Area Controller, Area 2 Command Onne; the Chairlady of the Nigeria Immigration Service Wives Association, Rivers State Marine Command; representatives of the Port Manager, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Onne; the Commandant of the NDLEA Port Command; and the State Commander of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service.
A notable highlight was the vote of thanks from Priesthood Orphanage Home, Onne. The orphanage expressed deep gratitude to the Chairlady for her show of love and generosity towards the children residing in their care.
Similarly, widows within the Ebubu Barracks community conveyed their heartfelt appreciation for the sewing machines and grinding mills that would help improve their livelihoods.
In response, Hajiya Babandede reaffirmed her commitment to doing even more in 2025, highlighting her dedication to the association’s mission.
She also thanked all attendees for honouring the occasion, making it a memorable celebration.
