Aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing the local economy, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced the disbursement of N2 billion to 19,023 beneficiaries, primarily unemployed youths and vulnerable individuals across the state. This financial aid is part of the government’s Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW) initiative. The announcement was made during the launch of the orientation and disbursement phase under the OD-CARES social transfer and LIPW program held in Akure.
The governor emphasized that this support package aligns with his administration’s goal of empowering youth and vulnerable groups to improve their standard of living. He also instructed the immediate enrolment of an additional 1,000 beneficiaries to further extend the program’s reach and uplift more unemployed residents.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the Federal Government has equally contributed N2 billion under the Renewed Hope Agenda, benefiting 77,000 residents. Additionally, through the Ondo State Conditional Cash Transfer Unit, over 7,500 people have received support under the OD-CARES program. He highlighted that over N2 billion has been allocated to assist senior citizens and chronically-ill individuals, with 2,870 recipients receiving bi-monthly stipends of N20,000. Preparations are underway to include 5,000 new beneficiaries in this social safety initiative.
“Our commitment to transform lives remains unwavering,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated, pledging that his administration will continue to work diligently to ensure that vulnerable citizens receive the assistance they need and deserve.
During the event, Mr. Felix Alonge, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Program, praised the initiative as a reflection of the government’s dedication to reducing unemployment and fostering social inclusion. He noted that this initiative mirrors the governor’s vision of a fair, prosperous state where every resident has access to the resources needed to build a better life.
A beneficiary of the grant, Mrs. Enuiyin Oluwafunmilayo, expressed gratitude to the government, saying, “These funds will help me meet my essential needs and ease the financial burden I have been facing.”
