Ondo LGs Launch N20,000 Monthly Stipend for Elderly

The 18 local government councils in Ondo State have launched a welfare program that will provide a monthly stipend of N20,000 to approximately 5,400 elderly residents aged 70 years and above. Amidu Takuro, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, announced this initiative in Akure on Monday, emphasizing its goal to enhance the welfare of vulnerable residents, particularly senior citizens.

Each local government area has identified at least 300 eligible elderly individuals to benefit from this program, with plans to potentially increase the number of beneficiaries as the initiative progresses. In addition to the elderly support program, the councils have introduced youth and women empowerment initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and enhancing economic opportunities.

The councils are also focusing on agricultural support by distributing inputs such as cocoa and palm seedlings and fertilizers, while working to harmonize agricultural assistance across the local government areas.