Makinde’s welfare push reaches grassroots as 10,000 vulnerable residents benefit from OYCSDA support drive

From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

The Oyo State Government’s social safety initiatives gained fresh momentum on Monday as the Oyo State Community and Social Development Agency (OYCSDA) distributed food items and cash assistance to more than 10,000 vulnerable residents across the state, including widows, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities.

The intervention forms part of the World Bank supported Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, implemented in collaboration with the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to cushion economic hardship and strengthen community resilience.

Speaking at the distribution centre in Alegongo Community Hall, Akobo, Lagelu Local Government Area, the Chairman of OYCSDA, Hon. Abideen Adetokunbo Adeaga, highlighted the broader agenda of the programme, which he said goes beyond welfare relief to sustaining development across Oyo’s rural and semi-urban communities.

Adeaga noted that his two years at the helm of the agency have recorded “significant strides” under Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, with micro-projects delivered in 144 communities, ranging from potable water systems and erosion control to classroom support and community healthcare facilities.

He praised Governor Makinde for consistently funding community development and for expanding psychosocial support for residents facing economic difficulty. He encouraged beneficiaries and community leaders to safeguard completed projects for long-term use.

“As we distribute these packages here in Ibadan, the same support is going on simultaneously across all zones — Oke-Ogun, Oyo, Ibarapa and Ogbomoso,” Adeaga said, underscoring the scale of the initiative.

One of the beneficiaries, Pa Hamzat Ade, speaking on behalf of others, expressed gratitude to the state government for prioritizing the welfare of the vulnerable. He prayed for the continued progress of Oyo State and pledged ongoing support for the current administration.

The event drew several political and community leaders, including Akinyele Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ayobami Akinwole; former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Oribayo Okeyode; Alhaja Wulemotu Ibitoye; and PDP State Organizing Secretary, Hon. Babatunde Tijani (Double Tee).