WIDOWS & WIDOWERS SUPPORT
Supporting Widows and Widowers in Nigeria
The loss of a spouse often brings profound emotional, social, and financial challenges. While both widows and widowers experience grief, many widows in Nigeria also face cultural practices, discrimination, and economic hardship that place them at greater risk of poverty and social exclusion.
Research and advocacy organizations estimate that between 15 and 21 million widows live across Nigeria, many experiencing significant vulnerability.
In some communities, particularly in parts of southern and eastern Nigeria, widowhood can come with social stigma, exclusion, and harmful traditional practices. Some widows are subjected to degrading mourning rites, forced seclusion, hair shaving, and other rituals that undermine dignity during an already traumatic period.
Older widows, widowers, and those caring for young dependents are the most economically and socially vulnerable groups in many Nigerian communities.
What BOSTAT Foundation Is Doing
BOSTAT Foundation’s Widows and Widowers Support Initiative was born out of lived experience and grassroots compassion.
More than five years ago, our founder began community outreach in Ondo State after witnessing the daily struggles faced by elderly widows, widowers, and vulnerable families. Many lacked access to necessities such as food, healthcare, stable income, and social support.
Since then, the Foundation has continued to provide practical assistance that restores dignity, strengthens resilience, and promotes long-term independence.
Today, we support widows and widowers,especially those caring for young dependents through programs that improve livelihoods, strengthen families, and provide hope for a better future.
Our Key Interventions
Basic Needs Support
Providing food, clothing, and essential household supplies to individuals and families experiencing hardship.
Economic Empowerment
Supporting sustainable livelihoods through vocational training, entrepreneurship development, business mentoring, and small business grants.
Elder Care Outreach
Providing welfare assistance and community support for elderly widows and widowers who are economically or physically vulnerable.
Family and Child Support
Helping widowed parents keep children in school while strengthening household stability through targeted family assistance.
Advocacy and Community Awareness
Working with communities to challenge harmful widowhood practices, promote dignity, protect human rights, and encourage compassionate support for bereaved families.
Our Commitment
At BOSTAT Foundation, we believe no one should face grief and hardship alone. We remain committed to restoring dignity, creating opportunities, empowering vulnerable families, and building stronger communities where widows and widowers can rebuild their lives with hope, confidence, and independence.
Together, we can ensure that every bereaved family receives the care, respect, and opportunity they deserve.