By Yemi Olajutemu
Ado Ekiti
In a bid to enhance social services dispensation to the populace, the Ekiti State Government has reinstated its zonal social welfare office in Ijero-Ekiti.
This office is set to cater for the needs of individuals residing in Efon, Ekiti West, and Ijero Local Government Areas.
During the inauguration and facility tour of the Office located at the College area along Epe Ekiti Road, Ijero Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, emphasized the profound commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to upholding the rights and dignities of all citizens, particularly women and children.
Accompanied by the Ministry’s management team, including the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Tayo Olatilu and Director of Social Welfare Services Mr. Bayo Odewale, Mrs. Babafemi assessed the facilities and engaged in discussions with the stakeholders within the community .
At the meeting in Ijero, dignitaries present included Chairman Chief Folowosele (represented by Vice Chairman Mrs. Bosede Jallo), the chairman’s wife, and former council official Mrs. Ayoka Ogundare.
Mrs. Babafemi expressed gratitude to the council for providing the office space and stressed the importance of aligning with the Governor’s agenda on social welfare, calling for robust engagement and collaboration with Community Development Officers working at the Zonal office.
The Commissioner also paid a visit to the FRSC Area Command office in Ijero, which shares the same compound with the welfare office. She appealed for cooperation from officials to ensure the safety and security of the office facilities.
At the palace of Ajero Oba Adebayo Adewole, Mrs. Babafemi acknowledged the monarch’s efforts in securing the office, disclosing the ministry’s vision to establish a family court to complement traditional rulers’ peacekeeping initiatives and amplify government impact at the grassroots.
Babafemi explained that the re-establishment of the zonal social welfare office in Ijero-Ekiti was a testament to the government’s dedication to serving its citizens, ensuring their rights are safeguarded, and fostering community development.
Oba Adewole commended Mrs. Babafemi’s stellar performance since assuming office, citing her distinguished track record in various managerial and leadership positions within the state.
He pledged his support and commitment to collaborating with the social welfare officers stationed in the zone. Furthermore, he urged parents to emulate the leadership composition of the Ministry and prioritize the welfare of their female children.
Mrs. Babafemi who undertook an inspection of the facilities at both the Ijero and Ido Ekiti offices, lauded the resilience of Mrs. Ayeni Bosede Modupe, the social officer in charge of the Ido Ekiti Office, despite operating within a less-than-ideal environment.
She promised to look into ways at making a conducive environment for the staff and directed that Mrs Ayeni should be given a commendation letter for showing commitment and dedication despite all odds.
Mrs Ayeni thanked the commissioner for the recognition and promised not to be deterred in the discharge of her duties.