The 18 local government councils in Ondo State have officially commenced a massive social welfare intervention scheme designed to alleviate economic hardship. under which about 5,400 vulnerable elderly residents will receive a monthly stipend of ₦20,000. The initiative marks a coordinated effort by local administrations to directly support aging populations across the state`s grassroots.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, disclosed the development during a media briefing on Monday in Akure, the state capital. Takuro stated that the welfare programme was introduced as a direct response to the socio-economic challenges facing vulnerable residents, with a specific focus on senior citizens who lack stable incomes.

According to the framework of the scheme, each of the 18 local government areas in Ondo State successfully identified at least 300 residents aged 70 years and above to benefit from the initial rollout. The commissioner noted that rigorous selection processes were implemented at the grassroots level to ensure that the cash transfers reach those who need them most.

The state government has also hinted at a potential expansion of the scheme in the coming months as financial resources improve. "They are providing a stipend to at least a minimum of 300 aged people between 70 years and above in their respective local governments. They are paying them a minimum of ₦20,000 monthly and they are planning to even increase that number," Takuro explained.

Beyond the elderly support programme, the commissioner revealed that the local councils have concurrently launched youth and women empowerment initiatives. These parallel schemes aim to reduce poverty, stimulate local commerce, and improve economic opportunities across all communities. The youth intervention is structured as a monthly program targeting young entrepreneurs capable of utilizing financial aid effectively.

Women are also being heavily prioritized under the new welfare drive due to their critical contributions to household stability and community development. The ministry emphasizes that empowering women financially creates a multiplier effect that improves child nutrition, healthcare access, and overall standard of living within the local government areas.

Furthermore, the 18 local councils are strengthening grassroot agricultural productivity by scaling up the distribution of vital inputs to farmers. To maximize impact, the state is currently establishing a coordinated system to harmonise the supply of cocoa seedlings, palm seedlings, and high-grade fertilisers across all council areas.

The Commissioner concluded by stating that individual councils will still retain the flexibility to determine the specific, unique needs of farmers in their respective domains. He maintained that the various interconnected interventions are part of a holistic agenda by local governments to improve livelihoods, protect vulnerable groups, and promote sustainable economic productivity throughout Ondo State.