To alleviate the plight of widows across Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori launched the Widows Welfare Scheme on Monday, a comprehensive support initiative aimed at empowering 10,000 widows through direct financial aid and access to free healthcare.

Speaking at the Event Centre in Asaba during the official flag-off, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his personal and political commitment to the welfare of widows, noting that widowhood is a painful condition no one chooses.
“Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice. Beyond the pain of losing a loved one, widows are left with the burden of survival. That is why this administration is determined to improve their living conditions and give them hope,” the governor said.

Under the scheme, each beneficiary will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, which will be paid directly into their bank accounts. Governor Oborevwori announced that payments will begin immediately, with each widow receiving ₦45,000 as a lump sum covering three months in arrears.

In addition to the financial support, all 10,000 widows are being enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, granting them free access to healthcare services at accredited hospitals and primary health centres across the state.
“This health insurance is even more important than the stipends because it ensures that no widow is denied medical care due to lack of funds,” the governor added.

The scheme is being coordinated by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Programmes, Elder Isioma Okonta, who described the initiative as a significant milestone in Delta State’s social welfare agenda.
“This is not just a policy; it’s a reflection of the governor’s heart,” Okonta said. “He has shown that government can be a father to widows and a pillar of support for the poor.”

Some beneficiaries, including Christiana Akaluzia, Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mercy Ololo, expressed deep appreciation to the governor, praising the initiative as life-changing.
“We are grateful for both the financial help and the health coverage,” said Akaluzia. “This is the first time we are feeling truly seen by the government.”

The Widows Welfare Scheme marks a bold step in Governor Oborevwori’s broader effort to build an inclusive and compassionate Delta State, where no one—especially the vulnerable—is left behind.