Connect with us

society

CBA FOUNDATION: HELPING CHALLENGED WIDOWS MAKE LEMONADE FROM LIFE’S LEMONS

Published

4 years ago

on

CBA FOUNDATION: HELPING CHALLENGED WIDOWS MAKE LEMONADE FROM LIFE’S LEMONS

CBA FOUNDATION: HELPING CHALLENGED WIDOWS MAKE LEMONADE FROM LIFE’S LEMONS

 

 

 

 

 

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” is a proverbial phrase said to have been first coined by the writer Elbert Hubbard in 1915. This simple seven-word maxim is very popular and yet so powerful.

 

 

 

 

CBA FOUNDATION: HELPING CHALLENGED WIDOWS MAKE LEMONADE FROM LIFE’S LEMONS

 

People who quote Hubbard’s proverb so easily and apply it in the same measure in their life and circumstances usually have amazing grass-to-grace stories to tell. Their stories illustrate the world of limitless opportunities that open up to people with a mindset primed to make the best of the situations they find themselves in.

 

However, there are people out there to whom this sensible phrase makes no sense at all. They have found themselves in a very dark place, where they cannot see any future or way forward. And they want to end it all. Death (by suicide) appears to make more sense to them than trying any further to give life another chance and persevere through the challenges they have lived with for long.

 

People in such an awful state do not consider that there are other people whose situations are far worse than theirs but are hanging on and still trudging ahead in hope that better days would come. They do not think of drawing inspiration to live and keep trying from those other people. They just want to end their life.

 

This was the position where Mrs Abiola Jacob was months ago when she decided she would take her own life by jumping into the sea. Being a widow for 17 years was bad enough. Not being able to make something of her life in her widowed state after trying for years was devastating. It was what Mrs Jacob could not take any more.

 

She had had enough of trying. She had lost the will to live and the drive to fight any more for a chance to make something of her life. But for providence, which positioned the group of fishermen that rescued her in the nick of time, she would have joined the growing statistics of people in Nigeria who commit suicide.

 

That she still finds herself in the land of the living after bidding what she considered her final farewell to the world is one of those miracles that do not happen too often. But that Mrs Jacob’s hope for a brighter future and the will to live and fight for one have been restored is all thanks to the Chinwe Bode-Akinwande Foundation (CBA Foundation) and the public-spirited individuals and organisations that have continued to support the Foundation in its work amongst underprivileged widows and their vulnerable children, since 2015.

 

Following the great rescue, the rescuers (those selfless fishermen) realised Mrs Jacob was one of the widows in that area who had been a recipient of donations made by the CBA Foundation, as part of its interventions to provide succour to vulnerable widows. They wasted no time in contacting the Foundation to see what further assistance it could provide.

 

The Foundation was determined that that would be the first (known) and last time suicide would be mentioned in the same sentence with Mrs Jacob’s name. So, it went beyond counselling and encouragement to provide Mrs Jacob with her desired means of livelihood – a provisions-retailing set-up with all the goods and tools (large stock of various brands of soft drinks, table and sachet water, biscuits, among others, as well as a constructed retail display stand, chair, sunshade/umbrella stand) that she would require to start trading right away.

 

The result of the Foundation’s effort has been magical! A hopeful and elated Mrs Abiola Jacob has emerged, now determined to make the best of her circumstances. The new glow of happiness her life radiates is evidence that she now has a new lease of life.

 

She now has her own grass-to-grace story, courtesy of the CBA Foundation, who helped to make lemonade for her from the lemons life handed her. Mrs Jacob is so full of praise for the Foundation and prays that “God will continue to provide for them and bless them”.

 

Mrs Jacob’s new story is one that is likely to encourage a rethink in any vulnerable widows and challenged persons who have been contemplating suicide. Hence, this piece and other efforts to spread her new story.

 

No matter the lemon life hands you, lemonade can be made from it. If you have reached your wit’s end in trying to figure out how to make lemonade from the lemons life has handed you, you should not keep your struggles to yourself, or wait till you get to that very dark place.

 

You should quickly reach out and call for help in line with the saying “a problem shared is a problem halved”. Suicide should not feature in your consideration. It should not be elevated to an option. Because it is not. It is not even a last resort. That you have reached your wit’s end does not mean that people whom you could turn to for help would find themselves also stuck and unable to think beyond the mental block that seems to point to suicide as a way out of your predicament.

 

Life happens – that is, life hands people lemons and this happens every now and then. But part of what makes humans the greatest species in the entire world is that we (or those we turn to for support) can help to make lemonade from life’s lemons. There is no doubt that life has been particularly more challenging for many, especially vulnerable groups like widows and their children, since the COVID-19 pandemic began ravaging the world.

 

But it has been observed during this same period that humanity has risen in an unprecedented way to meet the challenge and people have been most kind, making spirited efforts to reach out to and support others, especially the vulnerable. Given that the world is still in the throes of the pandemic, there should not be any relenting in such efforts.

 

The vulnerable need more help and support at this crucial time, to make it through. They must not be allowed to lose hope and get to that very dark place, because of the harsh effects of a pandemic that experts contend will one day become history, just like other pandemics that the world had faced in the past. The strong and able should help the vulnerable to keep hope alive, to keep believing, to keep pressing until all of humanity – both the strong and the vulnerable – get past this horrendous tide.

 

People who are strong and are able to cope with all manner of challenges that come their way should by now appreciate that they have something for which they should be thankful. In the striking metaphor/analogy of the boiling water, potato and egg used in Mel Robbin’s famous quote (“The same boiling water that softens the potato, hardens the egg”), they are the egg that gets hardened and toughened by the boiling water while the potato is softened by it.

 

Strong people have to be grateful for their ability to chew challenges for breakfast, consume difficulties for lunch and masticate adversities for dinner. They should appreciate their ability to deal with life’s unpleasant and unwanted handout of lemons by making lemonade of them.

 

However, strong people’s gratitude should not end in self-congratulations over their “superhuman” strength and resilience. Their gratitude should also extend to the desire to give back, not just mere handouts but in a reasonable way that helps to empower, and build the same resilience in, the vulnerable – those who are like the potato softened by the same boiling water that hardens the egg.

 

This is the purpose the CBA Foundation was created to fulfil, especially for underprivileged widows and their vulnerable children. The Foundation is a ready platform the appreciative strong can immediately adopt to reach out to the vulnerable as a way of showing their gratitude.

 

The CBA Foundation is an effective vehicle through which resources can be channelled to help vulnerable widows and their children make lemonade from the lemons life has handed them. So, consider partnering with them today in the mission of reaching widows who may be on the brink and helping them to get a second chance at life like Mrs Abiola Jacob.

 

Do not delay or debate the need to contact the Foundation right away. You can visit the Foundation’s website www.cbafoundation.org and send an email now at: [email protected].

 

Related Topics:

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

Continue Reading
Advertisement

society

Banwo Law Offers Lifeline as New USCIS Policy Threatens Immigrants With Re-Entry Bans

Published

5 hours ago

on

May 22, 2026

By

Banwo Law Offers Lifeline as New USCIS Policy Threatens Immigrants With Re-Entry Bans

Banwo Law Offers Lifeline as New USCIS Policy Threatens Immigrants With Re-Entry Bans

‎
‎A major immigration policy shift being considered by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) could place thousands of immigrants at risk of severe re-entry penalties, according to renowned immigration attorney Ope Banwo, whose law firm, Banwo Law, says it is already helping affected individuals navigate the evolving situation.
‎
‎Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Octopus News, Banwo warned that the policy memo issued by USCIS on May 22 could dramatically alter the pathway many immigrants currently use to obtain permanent residency in the United States.
‎
‎According to him, USCIS is signaling that Adjustment of Status inside the United States may no longer be treated as the standard route to obtaining a Green Card, but rather as an “extraordinary” form of relief.
‎
‎If fully implemented, the policy could require many immigrants to complete their Green Card processing through U.S. embassies and consulates abroad instead of remaining in America during the process.
‎
‎Banwo explained that the potential policy change could affect a broad category of immigrants, including H1B workers, F1 students, B1/B2 visitors, exchange visitors, temporary workers, and even some immigrants currently maintaining lawful status in the United States.
‎
‎“For decades, Adjustment of Status has protected many immigrants from dangerous immigration consequences tied to leaving the United States,” Banwo stated.
‎
‎“The danger now is that some immigrants could unknowingly trigger automatic three-year or ten-year re-entry bans the moment they depart America for overseas visa processing.”
‎
‎He noted that many immigrants are unaware that prolonged unlawful presence in the United States can activate severe immigration penalties once they leave the country, even if their departure is tied to official immigration processing.
‎
‎According to Banwo, marriage-based Green Card applicants, employment-based immigrants, visa overstays, and temporary workers transitioning to permanent residency may all face significant legal complications under the proposed policy direction.
‎
‎However, Banwo urged immigrants not to panic, stressing that proper legal guidance and strategic planning remain critical.
‎
‎He warned immigrants against relying on unverified social media information or “TikTok lawyers” when making life-changing immigration decisions.
‎
‎Banwo disclosed that Banwo Law, accessible through SpeakWithOpe.com https://speakwithope.com, is already providing consultations to immigrants across the United States by reviewing immigration histories, assessing waiver eligibility, and developing legal strategies tailored to individual cases.
‎
‎The experienced immigration law firm is also helping clients understand whether they may still qualify for Adjustment of Status inside the United States or whether alternative legal pathways may be available.
‎
‎Banwo stressed that immigrants should seek experienced legal counsel before traveling outside the United States or taking any immigration steps that could jeopardise their ability to return or secure lawful permanent residency.
‎
‎“Immigration law is changing rapidly,” he said. “This is not the time for guesswork. People need experienced legal guidance now more than ever.”
‎Banwo Law Offers Lifeline as New USCIS Policy Threatens Immigrants With Re-Entry Bans

Continue Reading

society

EWMCN Congratulates SK Sensation On Third-Term Re-Election As FUMAN National President ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV

Published

8 hours ago

on

May 22, 2026

By

EWMCN Congratulates SK Sensation On Third-Term Re-Election As FUMAN National President ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV 

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

 

 

 

The President of the Elite Women Musician Club of Nigeria (EWMCN), Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola, popularly known as Omo-Opeki, has extended warm congratulations to Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Agboola, widely known as SK Sensation, following his successful re-election for a third term as the National President of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN).

 

 

 

 

In a congratulatory statement issued on behalf of EWMCN, Omo-Opeki described the victory as well-deserved, noting that the continuous support SK Sensation enjoys from members of the association is a clear reflection of his impact, leadership style, and dedication to the advancement of Fuji music in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

According to her, his re-election for another term represents not only a personal achievement, but also a sign of stability and continuity for the Fuji music community at a time when unity, structure, and strong leadership remain important within the entertainment industry.

 

 

 

 

She further commended SK Sensation for his efforts in promoting peace, cooperation, and development among Fuji musicians across different regions of the country, while also acknowledging his role in sustaining the relevance and visibility of FUMAN over the years.

 

 

 

 

Omo-Opeki stated that under his leadership, the association has continued to witness growth and stronger representation within the cultural and entertainment space, adding that many stakeholders in the industry recognize the consistency and commitment he has brought to the office.

 

 

 

 

“Leadership is earned through service, and this third-term victory clearly shows the confidence and trust members have in him,” she noted while praying for greater wisdom, strength, and success for the FUMAN President as he begins another tenure.

 

 

 

 

The EWMCN President also urged members of the association and the wider Fuji music community to remain united and supportive in order to ensure continued progress for the genre and its practitioners.

 

 

 

 

Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Agboola, popularly known as SK Sensation, remains one of the respected figures within the Fuji music industry and currently serves as the National President of FUMAN, the umbrella body representing Fuji musicians across Nigeria.

Continue Reading

society

Lagos Intensifies Mental Health Campaign as Experts Push Integrated Healthcare, Education System 

Published

10 hours ago

on

May 22, 2026

By

Lagos Intensifies Mental Health Campaign as Experts Push Integrated Healthcare, Education System

By Ifeoma Ikem 

 

The Lagos State Ministry of Health has reiterated the need for a stronger connection between healthcare, education, and emotional well-being as part of efforts to tackle growing mental health challenges and youth drug abuse in the state.

Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated this during the maiden edition of the Integrated Wellness and Education Conference held in Lagos.

The conference, which took place at Ikeja GRA, brought together health professionals, educators, students, and policy advocates to discuss the future of healthcare delivery, mental wellness, and youth development in Nigeria.

According to Abayomi, healthcare, education, and mental well-being are interconnected areas that must be addressed collectively in order to build a healthier society.

The commissioner, who was represented by Atewologun Titofunmi, a Mental Health Officer and Technical Support Adviser, explained that the state government is actively tackling mental health issues through its Mental Health Programme Lagos, popularly known as the MiND initiative.

He noted that mental health concerns have long been neglected due to social stigma and excessive focus on physical health, stressing that authorities are now working to change public perception and encourage open conversations around emotional well-being.

“Everything works hand in hand. We need to address mental health issues because historically, attention has focused mainly on physical health due to the stigma surrounding mental illness,” he said.

Abayomi disclosed that the state currently operates several wellness initiatives aimed at providing psychosocial support for public servants dealing with workplace stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

He further explained that the Ministry of Health runs dedicated 24-hour counseling support services free of charge for residents requiring emotional and psychological assistance.

Speaking on youth development, the commissioner expressed concern over the rising rate of drug abuse among young people, warning that substance abuse has become a major threat to mental health and social stability.

According to him, the state government is developing policies and awareness campaigns under the MiND initiative that will take anti-drug abuse advocacy directly into communities in order to educate youths on the dangers of substance abuse.

Also speaking at the event, Prof. Lere Baale emphasized the importance of mentorship, counseling, and quality education in helping young people make responsible life choices.

Baale said young people possess unique talents and abilities that can positively transform society if properly guided and supported through the right educational and career opportunities.

“We must teach our children the right things. God has shaped them to change the world despite the challenges they face,” he stated.

The pharmacy expert added that the decisions young people make at critical stages of life often determine their future, stressing the need for mentorship and career counseling to help them navigate educational and professional pathways successfully.

He maintained that Africa, particularly Nigeria, still holds enormous opportunities for growth and innovation despite its current challenges, adding that quality education remains the key to unlocking the continent’s potential.

“There is no place like home. The problems in Africa, especially Nigeria, are also opportunities. What we need is quality education to excel,” he added.

On his part, Dr. Samuel Kayode explained that the conference was designed to bridge knowledge gaps within the healthcare system and inspire young people to pursue careers in medicine and related professions.

According to him, many youths lack adequate understanding of opportunities within the healthcare sector, making it necessary to expose them to the realities, challenges, and rewards associated with medical professions.

Kayode noted that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed serious shortages in healthcare manpower globally and revealed the vulnerability of health systems during emergencies.

He observed that Nigeria’s healthcare workforce crisis has worsened due to the migration of trained professionals abroad, leaving the country with inadequate personnel to cater to its rapidly growing population.

“Globally, the goal is to produce more healthcare personnel, but in Nigeria the situation has become more critical because many professionals are leaving the country,” he said.

The conference also highlighted the importance of workplace flexibility, continuous learning, and career development in retaining healthcare professionals and improving productivity within organizations.

Participants stressed that flexible work schedules, remote work options, and supportive work environments are essential in helping workers balance personal responsibilities with professional demands.

The event featured participation from Jawa Group Nigeria and six secondary schools from across Lagos metropolis, with students engaging in debates and educational activities focused on healthcare, wellness, and career development.

 

Lagos Intensifies Mental Health Campaign as Experts Push Integrated Healthcare, Education System By Ifeoma Ikem 

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

RSS Africa-Newsroom

RSS APO Group – Africa-Newsroom: latest news releases related to Africa

Trending