Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has emphasised his administration's committment to priotizing the welfare of the poor and vulnerable.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stated this at the flag off of the orientation and disbursement of funds to beneficiaries under od-cares social transfer and labour intensive public works held at St. James' mega primary school, Iro, Akure.
According to the Governor, every individual deserves a safety net, a helping hand to overcome life's challenges, hence, the initiative embodies his administration's commitment to social justice and human dignity.
"It is a strong demonstration of the willingness and commitment of the Ondo State Government, through the ONDO CARES Programme, to uplift residents of the State, especially the poor, vulnerable youths, elderly, chronically-ill and physically challenged persons whose livelihood is affected by the outbreak of COVID-19 Pandemic and economic hardship ravaging countries of the world.
"The theme of this programme, "Orientation and Stakeholders' Meeting," underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership in caring for the welfare of our people. The World Bank, Federal CARES Office, Ondo State Cash Transfer Unit and the Labour-Intensive Public Works Unit have been pivotal in providing social transfers to our vulnerable citizens.
"The Ondo State Conditional Cash Transfer Unit (SCTU) has assisted over 7,500 beneficiaries across the State through the OD-CARES Programme where over two billion Naira has been disbursed to support the aged and chronically-ill adults with a total of 2,870 beneficiaries receiving bi-monthly stipends of N20,000.00.
The Governor stressed that preparations for the enrolment of additional 5,000 new beneficiaries are in top gear. "Our resolve to transform lives is a continuous exercise".
He gave his assurance that his administration would work tirelessly to ensure that most vulnerable citizens receive the support they deserve.
"The Labour-Intensive Public Works(LIPW) has disbursed over two billion Naira to nineteen thousand and twenty-three (19,023) beneficiaries, mostly unemployed youths and vulnerable persons, to reduce poverty and enhance local economy. I have further given instruction for enrolment of additional 1,000 beneficiaries to empower more unemployed youths in the State".
He also revealed that the Federal Government has also paid the sum of two billion Naira to seven hundred and seventy-seven thousand (77,000) beneficiaries under the Renewed Hope Agenda into seventeen (17) banks domiciled in Ondo State.
The Governor directed the officials in charge of Social Investment Programmes to facilitate disbursement of the funds to the beneficiaries.
He appreciated his heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the various social intervention initiatives.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on social investment programme, Barr Felix Alonge commended the administration for prioritizing the needs of young people and vulnerable groups.
"This initiative reflects the government's commitment to reducing unemployment and fostering social inclusion, it is a testament to the governor's vision of a fair and prosperous Ondo State where every citizen can access the support they need to improve their lives." Alonge said
Also, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment, Mr Orioye Igbayisemore appreciated the Governor for prioritizing the welfare of Ondo State citizens, especially the youths and the vulnerable assuring that every one enlisted would benefit from the gesture.
While assuring the people that Governor Aiyedatiwa to make life bearable and enjoyable for them, he urged them to continue to support the Governor's administration.
In appreciation, the beneficiaries sang, danced and prayed for the Governor's success at the forth coming gubernatorial election.
