…Beneficiaries Set to Receive Complimentary Healthcare Services
By Sunday Apah
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, inaugurated the Widows Welfare Scheme on Monday, a significant program aimed at offering financial aid and healthcare services to 10,000 widows throughout the state.
The event, which took place at the Events Centre in Asaba, represents a pivotal advancement in the Governor’s MORE Agenda, focused on elevating vulnerable populations and fostering inclusive governance.
During his address, Governor Oborevwori emphasized his enduring commitment to improving the lives of widows, both in his private and public capacities. He acknowledged the hardships faced by widows, noting that it is an unfortunate situation that is beyond their control, and highlighted the neglect and severe challenges they encounter after losing their primary supporters.
“Widowhood is not a choice, nor should it ever be. Apart from the heartache of losing a loved one, widows are burdened with the struggle for survival. Our administration is committed to enhancing their living conditions and restoring their hope,” the Governor stated.
He elaborated that the initiative aligns with the second pillar of his MORE Agenda – Opportunities for All – and fulfills his promise of inclusive governance, aiming to support the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.
Each participating widow will benefit from a monthly allowance of ₦15,000, deposited directly into their bank accounts. The Governor announced that these payments will begin immediately, with beneficiaries receiving an initial payment of ₦45,000 covering the first three months.
In addition to direct financial assistance, all participants will be registered in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, ensuring free healthcare access at accredited hospitals and primary health centers in their areas.
“This health insurance is even more crucial than the financial support, as it guarantees that no widow will be denied necessary medical treatment due to financial constraints,” Oborevwori asserted.
The Governor made it clear that the Widows Welfare Scheme is purely non-partisan, embracing all faiths and ethnicities within Delta. He explained that beneficiaries were chosen through a transparent, community-based selection process involving local leaders, traditional rulers, and civil organizations, which verified the claims of widowhood.
He added that the delay in launching the scheme was to confirm that only legitimate widows, particularly those who are elderly or disabled, were selected, thereby ensuring that assistance reaches those who truly need it, instead of individuals who are gainfully employed.
Since the beginning of his administration, over 266,000 individuals have benefited from social investment initiatives, including women’s empowerment, skill development programs, youth initiatives, MORE grant projects, and business aid programs.
The Governor assured that additional initiatives focused on job creation and empowerment for women and youth will be introduced shortly.
“As we work on infrastructure development, it is equally important to invest in the well-being of our citizens. Authentic governance goes beyond physical projects; it involves improving lives and instilling hope,” he remarked.
Elder Isioma Okonta, the Governor’s Executive Assistant on Social Investment Programmes, who managed the scheme, hailed it as a landmark achievement in Delta’s social investment history. He noted that this initiative reflects the Governor’s empathy and commitment to making governance a source of support for the disadvantaged.
Okonta also commended Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, the First Lady, for her unwavering advocacy for widows, describing her as “an exemplary figure of compassion.”
Several beneficiaries, including Christiana Akaluzia, Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mercy Ololo, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Governor for not only providing stipends but also ensuring they have access to complimentary healthcare within their communities.
With the launch of the Widows Welfare Scheme, Delta State has reaffirmed its position as a leader in citizen-focused governance, setting a standard for compassionate and inclusive leadership across Nigeria.
