Beneficiaries to Receive ₦15,000 Monthly Allowance, Free Healthcare
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has launched the Widows Welfare Scheme, a landmark initiative aimed at providing financial and healthcare support to 10,000 widows across the state.
Speaking in Asaba during the flag-off, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of widows and vulnerable groups.
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He described widowhood as a painful circumstance that often leaves women facing neglect and severe survival challenges.
“Being a widow is not by choice, and beyond the pain of losing a loved one, widows are left with the burden of survival. That is why this administration is determined to improve their living conditions and give them hope,” the Governor said.
Under the scheme, each widow will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, to be paid directly into their bank accounts.
Payments commence immediately, with beneficiaries already credited with ₦45,000 covering three months in arrears.
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In addition, all beneficiaries are enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, which guarantees them free access to healthcare at accredited hospitals and primary health centres.
Oborevwori stressed that the initiative is non-political, cutting across religious and ethnic divides, with beneficiaries carefully selected through a transparent, community-driven process across the 270 federal wards of the state. He explained that the delay in the flag-off was to ensure that only genuine widows were included, particularly the aged and physically challenged.
The Governor also highlighted other social investment programmes rolled out since the start of his administration, which have empowered over 266,000 people through women empowerment projects, youth initiatives, MORE grants, and business support schemes.
“As we build roads, bridges, and infrastructure, we must also invest in the welfare of our people. True governance is not just about physical projects but about touching lives and giving hope,” he stated.
Some beneficiaries, including Christiana Akaluzia, Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mercy Ololo, expressed gratitude to the Governor for providing both financial support and free healthcare.
Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, Elder Isioma Okonta, described the initiative as historic, noting that it demonstrates the Governor’s compassion and resolve to make government “a father to widows and a pillar of support for the poor.”
Highlight of the event was the instant crediting of beneficiaries’ bank accounts with ₦45,000.
Guardian