Get Guardian on GoogleGovernor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Tuesday urged affluent Nigerians and people in positions of authority to deploy their wealth, influence and intellect to improve society rather than use them to oppress others.
Makinde made the call while commissioning the Joseph and Esther Homes for Senior Citizens and attending the launch of Built from the Break, a book authored by renowned Nollywood actress, Mrs. Shola Shobowale, in Akobo, Ibadan.
The governor lauded Shobowale, who founded the home, for translating her concern for her parents and the elderly into an initiative that provides senior citizens with a safe, secure and dignified environment.
Describing the project as a quiet but deeply impactful intervention, Makinde said it reinforced the traditional value of caring for parents and older members of society.
He said that while public attention often focused on large and highly visible projects, initiatives that directly improved people’s lives could have more enduring social impact.
The governor urged wealthy Nigerians and those entrusted with positions of authority to use their resources and privileges for the common good.
“Stop using your wealth, your position and your influence to oppress others. Use your wealth, use your position and use your intellect to make life better for members of this society,” he said.
Makinde, who recalled that his late mother lived with him until her death, described Nigeria’s family support system as one of the country’s strengths.
He said the establishment of the home would further strengthen the culture of care and support for elderly people, particularly those who needed a secure and dignified place to live.
The governor also congratulated Shobowale on the publication of Built from the Break, describing writing a book as an undertaking that required courage, discipline and commitment.
He recalled that shortly after assuming office, he had considered publishing a compilation of his thoughts and aspirations for Oyo State but abandoned the project after pirated copies appeared before the original publication left the printers.
Makinde described Shobowale’s book as a recommended read and promised to feature it among the books he would review on social media this year.
He also announced that the access road leading to the facility, which is being rehabilitated by Lagelu Local Government, would be extended to the frontage of the home and equipped with solar-powered streetlights to improve accessibility and comfort for residents.
The governor, who said he was in the midst of a national campaign and would proceed to Abuja after the event to unveil the Reset Agenda Manifesto, explained that he considered the occasion important because of its significance to the welfare of senior citizens.
He also lauded Lagelu Local Government for the ongoing rehabilitation of Akala Way, describing the project as evidence of the contribution of local governments to development in the state.
The event attracted government officials, Nollywood personalities, community leaders and other well-wishers.
