Becoming a widow at a young age can be a life-altering experience. For Nigerian lawyer Emem Ette, the journey from loss to rediscovering love was both challenging and inspiring. Mrs. Ette, who serves as the Director of the Akwa Ibom State Government and Gender-Based Violence Response Department, has used her personal story to encourage widows to embrace new beginnings.

On April 17, 2025, Mrs. Ette took to Facebook to address the backlash a young widow faced for wanting to remarry. In her post, she revealed her own story: she became a widow at the age of 36 and eventually found love again, remarrying at 45 while raising her six children. Her message was clear—remarriage after the loss of a spouse is not something to be ashamed of.

Mrs. Ette passionately encouraged widows, particularly young ones, to ignore societal criticism and focus on their happiness. She emphasized that life after a significant loss doesn’t have to end in sorrow. Instead, it can be a chance to rebuild and rediscover joy, no matter what others might say.

Her story has resonated with many, shedding light on the challenges widows face and the courage it takes to move forward. Mrs. Ette’s openness offers hope and reassurance to women in similar situations, reminding them that love and happiness are still within reach.