Ese-Odo LGA Concludes Social Welfare Programme for the Aged in Arogbo Axis
Ese-Odo LGA Concludes Social Welfare Programme for the Aged in Arogbo Axis
Across the quiet riverfronts of Arogbo, a remarkable moment unfolded today—one that reflects the heart of a government determined to care for its elderly citizens. Elderly men and women, some supported by walking aids, others led gently by family members, gathered at Riverfront Hotel, Agadagba-Obon, to receive their ₦60,000.00 welfare stipend, marking the final phase of the Ese-Odo Local Government Social Welfare Programme for the Aged.
The atmosphere was warm and emotional, filled with gentle smiles, laughter, and stories of survival across generations. The programme, which spans three months of financial support, is a direct intervention by the Executive Chairman of Ese-Odo Local Government Area, High Chief Caleb Ebimobowei Molos, aimed at helping the elderly meet basic needs in a rapidly evolving economy.
A Government That Remembers Its Elders
Speaking during the disbursement, High Chief Molos described the aged population as “the pillars of history who preserved the culture and identity of Ijaw and Apoi generations.” He noted that no community develops by abandoning its elders, adding that the programme is not just government policy—it is moral responsibility.
The Chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating initiatives that support the most vulnerable groups in the area. The welfare scheme, he explained, was carefully designed to reach a meaningful number of beneficiaries while ensuring transparency and fairness in the process.
In the earlier phase of the programme, elderly beneficiaries in the Apoi axis received the same support, making the exercise truly inclusive across the local government area.
A Budget of Compassion
Records from the local government indicate that ₦18,000,000.00 was earmarked for the entire programme, covering 300 aged citizens across Ese-Odo. While the figure may appear modest at the state level, its impact at the community level is deeply visible.
For many of the beneficiaries, ₦60,000.00 means access to medication, food supplies, and the ability to support grandchildren under their care—a financial relief that restores dignity and reduces dependency.
A beneficiary at the venue, Mama Pere from Arogbo community, expressed her joy in tears, saying:
“Government remembered us today. With this money, I will buy my medicine and help my grandson in school. I pray for this government.”
Her words echoed the sentiments of many who sang traditional songs of appreciation for the programme.
Governor Aiyedatiwa Commended
The beneficiaries also offered heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, whose leadership created the enabling environment for local support systems to thrive. Under his administration, local governments have been encouraged to innovate and provide people-based governance.
A Gathering of Leaders
The event was witnessed by representatives from different levels of local governance and administrative structures. Notable personalities present included:
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Hon. Samuel Jemi, Chairman of Arogbo Local Council Development Area
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Hon. Perekeniboyegha Perry Ofoetitan, Deputy Leader of Council
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Pastor Fidelis Ola Egbukuyomi, Secretary to the Local Government
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LGA Supervisors and Councillors
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Mr. Fayape Olasunkanmi Emmanuel, Head of Local Government Administration
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Barrister Ebipaghatei Johnholt, Director of General Services and Administration
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Mr. Olagbuyiro Olanrewaju, Director of Finance and Supplies
The presence of these dignitaries underscored the importance of the programme and demonstrated a unified spirit of governance focused on community welfare.
A Vision Beyond the Present
Observers believe that initiatives like this have long-term impacts beyond the immediate disbursement. By placing priority on the aged, the Ese-Odo Local Government is reinforcing inter-generational respect, reminding the younger generation that community development must align with human values.
As High Chief Molos noted:
“We are building a culture where no elder feels forgotten.”
From Riverfront to History
Today’s ceremony at Riverfront Hotel may appear simple on the surface. Yet, it represents a chapter in the ongoing struggle to improve lives in the Niger Delta—one stipend, one handshake, and one prayer at a time. In these gestures lies the true meaning of leadership and governance.
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