On Friday, the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) in Osun provided business start-up kits to 18 widows of police officers who perished in active service inside the state.

Mrs Kangyang Gotan, Osun POWA Chairperson and wife of Osun Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, stated that the empowerment programme sought to provide widows with means to rebuild their life.

Gotan stated that she took it upon herself to meet the needs of the widows, who were frequently ignored.

"This programme was borne out of a desire not only to acknowledge the widows’ sacrifices but also to equip them with the tools, skills, and opportunities to rebuild and strengthen their lives.

“The programme is also to emulate the good act of the POWA President, Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, who is never tired of empowering the widows and the less privileged, most especially among the police community,” she said

She said the empowerment, which is her first, is not just about financial independence but also about restoring dignity, confidence, and the belief that the future still holds promise.

She said through the initiative, the widows would be provided mentorship and support that will enable them thrive in business, leadership, and community engagement.

Grinding machines, sewing machines, point-of-sale (POS) machines, gas cylinders and burner stoves, hair dryers, coolers, and soft drinks are among the gifts distributed to widows during the event.



“She added, We want them to know that they are not forgotten, and that they are not alone.

“We stand beside them—as sisters, as friends, and as a community united by compassion and purpose,” she said

In his speech, CP Ibrahim Gotan told the widows that the command would look after their needs and that they would not be abandoned.

The CP announced that the command will implement the POWA empowerment program, and that the project spearheaded by his wife would be expanded.

“I assure you all that this shinning gesture championed by my wife will be increased, as the command will also be organising similar gesture for the wives of our fallen heroes,” he said.