A heartbreaking story of a 22-year-old widow, Grace Udeme Emmanuel, who resorted to feeding her four children with poultry feed in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, has prompted swift intervention from the state’s First Lady, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno. Grace, who works at a poultry farm, was thrust into the public eye after Queen Praise Uzoma, the farm owner’s daughter, shared her plight on Instagram, igniting widespread concern and sympathy.
Responding to the outpouring of support, the Akwa Ibom State First Lady initially provided Grace with N500,000 for immediate relief. However, recognizing the need for long-term assistance, Mrs. Umo Eno has now ordered a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for the young widow.
According to Mrs. Uduak Ekong, the Chief Press Secretary to the First Lady, Grace has been moved into a furnished accommodation complete with kitchen utensils and a three-month supply of food. In addition, her monthly salary has been increased from N15,000 to N35,000, with the First Lady supplementing the N20,000 difference.
“Grace is still very young, despite being a mother of four,” Ekong said, emphasizing the importance of guiding her through this challenging time. “We need to ensure she’s not taken advantage of by others, which is why we’re also focusing on financial management and skill development.”
Plans are underway to enroll Grace in skills training and business management courses, along with a return to school to complete her secondary education. The First Lady has also mandated counseling and a mental health evaluation to ensure Grace receives holistic support.
“Her Excellency was particularly moved by the question of what could drive a mother to feed her children with poultry feed,” Ekong added. “Grace’s story highlights the severe hardship faced by many young women, and we’re committed to helping her build a better future.”
The initiative underscores the Akwa Ibom State government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable members of the community, particularly young widows like Grace, who are often overlooked.
