Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday, launched the Widows Welfare Scheme, a landmark initiative targeting 10,000 widows across the state with direct financial aid and free healthcare services.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Asaba, Oborevwori said the programme fulfils his campaign promise of inclusive governance under the MORE Agenda. Each beneficiary, he announced, will receive ₦15,000 monthly stipends, beginning immediately with a first payment of ₦45,000 covering three months in arrears, while all widows enrolled will also enjoy free medical care under the state health insurance scheme.
“Being a widow is not by 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,” the Governor said. He emphasised that the scheme is non-partisan, encompassing all wards, ethnicities, and religions, with beneficiaries verified through community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations.
Oborevwori added that the delay before the launch was to ensure transparency and exclude salaried workers so that only the most vulnerable—particularly aged and physically challenged widows—benefit. He assured that more interventions, including empowerment schemes for women and youth, are underway.
Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, Elder Isioma Okonta, hailed the initiative as “a historic milestone in Delta’s social investment journey,” praising the Governor’s compassion and the First Lady’s consistent advocacy for widows. Several beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for what they described as life-changing support.
With the scheme, Delta State has reinforced its reputation as a pacesetter in pro-people governance, prioritising not just infrastructure but the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens.
