The Asaba Development Union (ADU) Women's Wing, Lagos branch, has pledged to support vulnerable young women who have experienced abuse, exploitation and hardship, with a focus on rehabilitation and empowerment. The commitment was made by the newly inaugurated president of the wing, Dr (Mrs) Angela Adegboyega, who outlined her vision for the next three years, emphasising programmes aimed at improving the lives of women within and beyond the union.
“My tenure as President will span three years, during which I intend to build on our existing efforts to support women in diverse and meaningful ways. This includes strengthening initiatives that empower women in their businesses, while also providing emotional and practical support to enhance their overall well-being,” she said.
Adegboyega identified the empowerment of vulnerable young women as a key priority of her administration, particularly those who have faced sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking. “A key priority of my administration is the support and empowerment of vulnerable young women who have experienced sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. Our goal is to help them rebuild their lives and attain self-reliance, independence, and long-term stability,” she added.
She said the union plans to deploy structured interventions, including skills acquisition programmes, education and vocational training, to equip beneficiaries with tools for sustainable livelihoods. “Through structured skills acquisition programmes, education, and training, we aim to equip these young women with the tools they need to make a fresh start and create sustainable futures for themselves,” she said.
Adegboyega noted that the initiative would target women in communities across Lagos State and Asaba, adding that the union remains committed to advancing women’s welfare and contributing to social development.
The Isama Ajie of Asaba, Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, described the association as a progressive group committed to advancing the interests of Asaba indigenes in Lagos. Nduka-Eze, who expressed pride in his longstanding association with the group, said the union has remained proactive in supporting its members, particularly during periods of financial need. He disclosed that about four to five years ago, he held discussions with the then leadership of the women’s wing, including its president and a member, Ifeoma Adimkpaya, on ways to assist members facing financial challenges.
According to him, the discussions led to his provision of funds to serve as interim financial support for members, with the understanding that beneficiaries would repay the money to enable the union to extend similar assistance to others. He added that the initiative has since expanded, with additional contributions from other members strengthening the support fund. Nduka-Eze commended the outcomes recorded so far and urged other Asaba indigenes to contribute, describing the initiative as a legacy project capable of strengthening community support networks across the country.
He also expressed confidence in the leadership of the newly inaugurated president, noting that she would build on the achievements of her predecessor, Dr Eugenia Williams. “The new President will confidently build on the achievements of Dr. Eugenia Williams, whose impressive record encouraged me to provide the seed capital for the empowerment programme,” he said.
Also, the Eji Okwu Asaba, Chief (Dr) Ken Ifeanyichukwu Mordi, described the installation of a new president for the ADU Women’s Wing as a routine but significant transition aimed at strengthening the group’s impact, particularly in charitable activities. Mordi said the women’s wing had outlined plans to channel proceeds from its activities into supporting vulnerable members of society. The traditional leader expressed confidence in the capacity of the newly installed president to lead the group effectively, noting that guidance would be provided as needed.
