ASABA — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday launched the Widows Welfare Scheme, a major social support programme designed to provide financial aid and healthcare services to 10,000 widows across the state.
The official flag-off ceremony took place at the Events Centre, Asaba, and was described by the Governor as a key step in delivering his MORE Agenda, which focuses on uplifting vulnerable groups and promoting inclusive governance.
A Lifeline for Widows
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori said his passion for the welfare of widows predates his time in government. He noted that widowhood is a painful condition that no one chooses, stressing that many widows face hardship and neglect after the death of their husbands.
“Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice. 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,” he said.
Cash and Healthcare Support
Under the new scheme:
- Each widow will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, paid directly into their bank accounts.
- Payments begin immediately, with beneficiaries receiving a **first installment of ₦45,000, covering three months in arrears.
- All beneficiaries are also being enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, guaranteeing free access to healthcare at accredited hospitals and primary health centres across their communities.
The Governor stressed that the health insurance package was even more important than the cash support because it ensures that “no widow is denied medical care due to lack of funds.”
Transparent and Non-Political
Oborevwori made it clear that the programme is non-political, cutting across all religious, ethnic, and political divides. Beneficiaries were selected through a community-driven verification process involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society groups in all 270 wards of the state.
He explained that the delay in the launch was to ensure that only genuine widows were included, while those already employed in government service were excluded so that the benefits go strictly to those most in need, including the elderly and physically challenged.
More Support Programmes Coming
The Governor highlighted that since the start of his administration, over 266,000 people have benefitted from social investment initiatives such as women and youth empowerment schemes, skill acquisition programmes, MORE grants, and business support projects.
“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 added.
Voices of Appreciation
Elder Isioma Okonta, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, who coordinated the scheme, described it as a historic milestone for Delta State’s social investment journey. He praised the Governor’s compassion and also acknowledged the First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for her tireless advocacy for widows.
Some beneficiaries, including Christiana Akaluzia, Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mercy Ololo, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Governor, saying the scheme not only brings financial relief but also gives them access to medical care in their local communities.
With the introduction of the Widows Welfare Scheme, Delta State has reinforced its position as a pacesetter in inclusive and compassionate governance, setting an example for other states in Nigeria to follow.
