Impact of educational attainment and own income of widows on consequence of de-humanizing widowhood practices in Enugu State, South East, Nigeria

The influence of education and personal income on widows in Enugu State, South East Nigeria, is significant and complex. Education equips widows with knowledge of their rights, strengthens their ability to make decisions, and enhances their economic opportunities. Likewise, personal income grants widows financial autonomy, better living conditions, and greater social acceptance. These factors are vital in reducing the adverse effects of degrading widowhood practices, such as the loss of property and inheritance rights, forced remarriage, social exclusion, and stigmatization. By empowering widows through education and financial independence, we can enable them to challenge and overcome these harmful traditions, ultimately improving their quality of life. Nevertheless, there remain gaps in current research and persistent challenges that require attention. These include the need for more studies on the overlapping identities of widows, a lack of long-term research, and insufficient focus on policy-related outcomes. Bridging these gaps demands a collaborative effort involving government bodies, NGOs, community leaders, and other key stakeholders. By adopting the recommendations proposed in this report, we can take meaningful steps toward alleviating the effects of dehumanizing widowhood practices and advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. It is crucial to continue prioritizing the rights and well-being of widows, ensuring they have access to education, economic opportunities, and support systems that enable them to live dignified and fulfilling lives.