Agboje Chuks
Hon. (Chief) Isioma Okonta, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Social Investment Programs, has lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for officially launching the Widows’ Welfare Scheme, describing him as a “people-oriented governor with a heart for the vulnerable.”
Hon. Okonta said the initiative reflects Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering passion for the well-being of Deltans, particularly marginalized groups who often struggle for survival.
The program was formally launched on August 19, 2025, at the Events Centre, Asaba, in what many have described as a landmark step in the Governor’s MORE Agenda aimed at inclusive governance and social upliftment.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori emphasized his personal commitment to supporting widows, both in his private life and public service. He noted that widowhood remains one of the most painful human experiences, often leaving women abandoned and burdened with survival challenges.
“Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice,” the Governor said. “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 stressed that the scheme aligns with the second pillar of his MORE Agenda—Opportunities for All—and fulfills his campaign promise to run an inclusive government that prioritizes the poor and vulnerable.
He disclosed that under the initiative, 10,000 widows across Delta State will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, credited directly into their bank accounts.
“To provide immediate relief, each beneficiary will receive an initial ₦45,000 lump sum, covering three months in arrears.”
In addition to financial aid, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori noted that the enrolled widows will also benefit from the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, granting them free medical care at accredited hospitals and primary health centers.
Hon. Okonta hailed this dual package of financial and health support as a “masterstroke,” stressing that access to healthcare was also important like the stipends.
“This health insurance is equally important because it guarantees that no widow will be denied medical care due to lack of funds,” he said.
Chief Okonta who is a respected community leader from Abavo in Ika South Local Government Area, emphasized that the program is non-political.
He explained that the beneficiaries were selected through a transparent, community-driven process, involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society groups who verified claims of widowhood and vulnerability.
The scheme, he added, covers all 270 wards across Delta State, ensuring widespread impact and fairness.
Hon. Okonta highlighted that since the start of Governor Oborevwori’s administration, about 266,000 Deltans have benefitted from various social investment programs, including women and youth empowerment schemes, business support initiatives, and skills development programs.
Describing the widows’ scheme as a “historic milestone,” Okonta praised the Governor’s compassion and resolve to make the government “a father to widows and a pillar of support to the poor.”
He also commended the First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for her consistent advocacy on behalf of widows, calling her “a shining example of compassion.”
Sharing their joy, some of the widows present confirmed that payments had already commenced. Mrs. Ejiro Elloh, from Ethiope East LGA, expressed joy at receiving her stipend, urging massive support for the Governor’s administration.
Others, including Mrs. Christiana Akaluzia, Mrs. Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mrs. Mercy Ololo, also lauded the initiative, describing it as life-changing and a source of renewed hope.
They agreed that with the launch of the Widows’ Welfare Scheme, Delta State has once again positioned itself as a leader in pro-people governance, setting a benchmark for inclusivity and compassionate leadership across Nigeria
