By Yemi Olajutemu
Ado Ekiti
The Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, has commended the various programs and initiatives of the Oyebanji led administration towards making life better for the senior citizens.
Mrs. Babafemi made these remarks during a special engagement with senior citizens at the Adetiloye Hall in Ado-Ekiti, part of the events marking Governor Oyebanji’s second year in office.
the Commissioner explained that invaluable contributions of the state’s senior citizens in supporting Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration can not be underestimated, noting that they have provided guidance and counsels, which has helped the government address various development issues.
She emphasized that senior citizens remain great assets to the state and expressed the government’s gratitude for their continued support.
Highlighting the Oyebanji administration’s commitment to the welfare of the elderly, Mrs. Babafemi noted the governor’s consistent engagement with senior citizens, ensuring their well-being through elder-friendly policies and programs.
She also acknowledged the significant efforts of First Lady Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, whose Widows, Aged, Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project has provided relief to vulnerable groups across the state.
Reflecting on the theme of the 2024 International Day of Older Persons, “Aging with Dignity,” commemorated on October 5, Mrs. Babafemi emphasized the administration’s passion for ensuring that every Ekiti citizen, including the elderly, lives a fulfilling and dignified life. She thanked the Council of Elders, led by Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, for their partnership with the government in these efforts.
“The administration’s elder-friendly policies, such as the regular payment of pensions, clearing of gratuity backlogs, and investments in healthcare and infrastructure, are aimed at enhancing the lives of senior citizens,” Mrs. Babafemi said.
She stressed that the governor’s focus on providing good roads, quality healthcare, and timely pension payments is all part of ensuring the well-being of the elderly.
The Commissioner extended her appreciation to the local government authorities, led by the ALGON Chair, for ensuring the participation of elders from various Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). She also commended the Inner Wheel Club and seven female LGA chairpersons for providing gifts for the elders.
Earlier, Ekiti State First Lady Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji had assured the elderly that Governor Oyebanji’s administration will continue to value their wisdom and experience in shaping the progress of the state.
The event also included a medical outreach for the elderly, with a healthcare team led by Dr. Abayomi Oshatimehin providing medical services. In addition, Prof. Deji Ajayi, a Consultant and Professor of Medicine from Ekiti State University, delivered a special lecture on “Elders and their Health,” offering insights on senior health management.