Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday launched the Widows Welfare Scheme, a social support initiative designed to provide financial stipends and healthcare coverage for 10,000 widows across the state.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Oborevwori said the programme reflected his long-standing commitment to supporting widows, both in private and public life.

“Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice,” the governor stated. “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.”

He explained that the scheme aligns with the second pillar of his administration’s MORE Agenda Opportunities for All and fulfills his campaign promise of running an inclusive government that prioritises the poor and vulnerable.

Under the scheme, each widow will receive a monthly stipend of N15,000, credited directly to their bank accounts. Beneficiaries will begin by receiving N45,000 in arrears, covering three months.

In addition, all participants will be enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, which provides free access to healthcare services in accredited hospitals and primary health centres across their communities.

“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,” Oborevwori added.

The governor stressed that the programme is non-political and inclusive, cutting across all religious and ethnic divides. He said beneficiaries were selected through a transparent, community-driven process across the state’s 270 federal wards, with input from community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to verify claims of widowhood.