Ondo State councils launch monthly stipends for elderly residents

The 18 local government councils in Ondo State have launched a welfare programme providing approximately 5,400 elderly residents with a monthly stipend of ₦20,000. Amidu Takuro, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, announced the initiative in Akure, stating it is designed to support vulnerable populations, specifically senior citizens aged 70 and above.

Each local government area has identified a minimum of 300 beneficiaries, with officials noting that the number of recipients may expand as the programme progresses.

In addition to elderly support, the councils are implementing youth and women empowerment initiatives aimed at poverty reduction. The state is also strengthening agricultural assistance by distributing fertilizers and seedlings, such as cocoa and palm, to farmers. Authorities are working to harmonize these agricultural support systems across all 18 councils while allowing for local autonomy to meet specific regional needs.