Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday launched the Widows Welfare Scheme, an initiative aimed at providing financial and healthcare support to 10,000 widows across the state.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, held in Asaba, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of widows, describing widowhood as a burden no one chooses. He noted that beyond the pain of losing a loved one, many widows are left struggling to survive, and the scheme is part of efforts to improve their living conditions and restore hope.
The scheme, which aligns with the second pillar of the governor’s MORE Agenda — Opportunities for All — is designed to deliver direct financial support and access to healthcare for vulnerable widows across the state. Under the programme, each beneficiary will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, paid directly into their bank accounts. The initial payment of ₦45,000, covering three months in arrears, has already commenced.
In addition to the financial support, all 10,000 beneficiaries will be enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme. This will grant them free access to healthcare services at accredited hospitals and primary health centres within their localities. Governor Oborevwori stressed that the healthcare component of the programme is even more critical, as it ensures that no widow will be denied medical attention due to financial hardship.
The governor made it clear that the initiative is non-political and cuts across all ethnic and religious lines. Beneficiaries were selected through a transparent, community-based process involving traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, and local coordinators in all 270 wards across the state.
He reiterated that the Widows Welfare Scheme is a fulfilment of his campaign promise to run an inclusive government that prioritises the needs of the poor and vulnerable, especially women who have lost their spouses.
