The empowerment of over 300 elderly women marks a significant milestone in grassroots welfare under the leadership of Hon. Dr Fasua Gbenga Timothy, aligning with his vision for inclusive community development across Akure South Local Government.
This initiative reflects the administration’s dedication to poverty alleviation, social inclusion, and community upliftment, especially for seniors who have spent their working years serving their families and communities without formal retirement benefits.
The gathering at the Secretariat was filled with anticipation well before the event started. Elderly women and men from different wards, community leaders, market women, civil servants, and political stakeholders arrived with excitement and curiosity.
In his address, Hon. Dr Fasua Gbenga Timothy said, “I want to sincerely thank the governor of Ondo State, Hon. Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for supporting grassroots development, and also thank the beneficiaries and guests for honouring us. This empowerment is not a loan scheme; it involves no repayment, but provides direct financial support to the elderly.”
He explained that the initiative aims to ease financial burdens, especially for elders facing healthcare costs, feeding, or small personal expenses.
The program will be carried out in phases, ensuring all eligible seniors in Akure South eventually benefit.
The local government focuses on humanitarian projects that restore dignity and hope among senior citizens.
Hon. Dr Fasua took the opportunity to highlight some achievements of his administration, including:
– Distributing eyeglasses to thousands, especially the elderly and visually impaired.
– Facilitating major eye surgeries that have restored sight and improved lives.
– Providing portable water through the construction of boreholes across different wards.
– Building a modern shopping complex at Mojere Market, Ilesha Garage.
– Grading community roads.
Upcoming programs will target youths, students (bursaries), widows, artisans, and people with disabilities.
He emphasised that good governance should be evident in people’s lives, not just policies, but through tangible actions.
Mr Yinka Oguntimehin, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, praised the Chairman’s dedication and compassion, saying, “This is how leadership should be. Our Chairman has shown genuine care. At this age, many have forgotten us, but today, we feel valued and loved again. God bless our Chairman.”
The event was attended by notable political leaders and government officials, including: Hon. Ayodele Adebayo, Vice Chairman of Akure South Local Government; Rt. Hon. Olalekan Oluwafemi, Leader of the Akure South Legislative House; Mr Funmilola, SSA to the Governor on Mobilisation (known as Yeye Oge of Akure); the Chief of Staff, Hon. Iteyemi Adegoroye, Councillors, and all supervising councillors and local government officials.
