King (Dr.) Suanu T.Y. Baridam, the Gbenemene and Kasimene of Bangha Ancient and Native Authorities and Chairman of the Khana Traditional Rulers’ Council, has organised a Christmas empowerment programme for over 300 widows in Bangha community, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The yuletide programme which held on Tuesday 31, December 2025 at the king palace in Bangha was aimed at identifying with widows during the festive season and appreciating their years of support and prayers for the throne and the community.
The monarch said the initiative came after weeks of reflection, during which he realised that widows within the kingdom had not been adequately brought together and catered for as a group.
“For some weeks now, it came to my heart that there is a particular set of people in the centre of this kingdom that have not been properly taken care of. We have attended to them individually before, but we have not gathered them like this, up to about 300, as we are doing today,” King Baridam said.
He explained that the widows, drawn from Bangha and other surrounding communities, were brought together to celebrate Christmas, receive cash support and share food items, adding that the gesture was a way of making them feel valued and remembered.
According to the traditional ruler, many of the widows have lost their husbands for a long time and are no longer able to work, leaving them with little or no means of livelihood. He said seeing their condition stirred compassion in him and reinforced the need to reach out to them in a more organised and inclusive manner.
Reflecting on his journey on the throne, King Baridam said the prayers and support of widows over the years have played a significant role in shaping his leadership and sustaining peace in the kingdom.
“I believe one of the major protections I have enjoyed is from the prayers of these women. No matter what I have gone through, they have always been there praying for me,” he stated.
The monarch announced plans to expand the programme in subsequent editions, revealing that future gatherings would involve more widows and would no longer be limited to end-of-year celebrations.
He expressed hope that the empowerment would be organised on a quarterly basis to ensure consistent care and engagement.
He also advised leaders and members of society to always remember widows, stressing that their welfare should not only attract attention during political seasons.
“Widows are very important to our society. If more people make conscious efforts to care for them, it will be a good thing for all of us,” he said.
The event was marked by prayers, words of encouragement and expressions of gratitude from the widows, many of whom described the initiative as timely and uplifting during the Christmas season.
[05/01, 7:02 pm] MY BOSS: 2026 New Year: Khana Chairman Urges Unity, Peace as LGA Steps into 2026As the people of Khana Local Government Area usher in the New Year 2026, Chief Dr. Thomas Bariere, CNA, DSSRS, Executive Chairman of the LGA, has called for unity, peace, and collective responsibility among residents, pledging continued focus on development and welfare across the communities.
In a new year message to his Khana people, Bariere urged everyone to embrace the year with hope, faith, and determination. “My dear people of Khana, as we step into the New Year 2026, I extend my warmest wishes to you all. I pray that God’s guidance, protection, good health, and abundant blessings will be with every household in our LGA,” he said.
The chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the people of Khana benefit fully from good governance and ongoing development initiatives. “May this year bring peace, renewed hope, and greater opportunities for all. I remain steadfast in my love and commitment to your welfare and the growth of our communities,” Bariere stated.
He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration between citizens and government as a key driver of progress. “We must walk together in solidarity, supporting every initiative that strengthens our local government. From education and healthcare to infrastructure and social programs, our focus remains on improving the quality of life for everyone in Khana,” he said.
Bariere concluded by encouraging residents to embrace 2026 with optimism and determination. “Let us make this year a time of peace, progress, and collective achievement. I wish you all a prosperous and fulfilling New Year, marked by joy, harmony, and lasting development for our beloved Khana,” he said.
