Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has commissioned a new senior citizens’ home in Ibadan, urging wealthy and influential Nigerians to use their resources, positions and privileges to improve society rather than oppress others.
Makinde commissions senior citizens’ home, known as Joseph and Esther Homes for Senior Citizens, on Tuesday in Akobo, Ibadan, during an event that also featured the launch of Built from the Break, a book authored by renowned Nollywood actress, Mrs. Shola Shobowale.
Speaking at the event, Governor Seyi Makinde congratulated Shobowale, who founded the facility, describing her initiative as a quiet but meaningful contribution to society.
He noted that the senior citizens’ home would provide a safe, secure and dignified environment for elderly people while reinforcing the traditional Nigerian value of caring for parents and older members of the family.
Makinde Commends Shola Shobowale for Establishing Senior Citizens’ Home
The governor described the establishment of Joseph and Esther Homes for Senior Citizens as an extraordinary gesture inspired by Shobowale’s love for her parents and concern for the welfare of elderly people.
According to him, while public attention often focuses on large and highly visible projects, initiatives that directly improve people’s lives can have lasting social impact.
Makinde also praised the actress for authoring Built from the Break, noting that writing and publishing a book require courage, discipline and commitment.
He recalled that shortly after assuming office, he had considered publishing a compilation of his thoughts and aspirations for Oyo State. However, he abandoned the project after pirated copies emerged before the original publication left the printing press.
The governor described Shobowale’s book as a highly recommended read and promised to feature it among the books he would review on social media this year.
Makinde Promises Road Rehabilitation, Solar Streetlights
During the commissioning ceremony, Makinde announced plans to extend the ongoing rehabilitation of the access road leading to the senior citizens’ home to its frontage.
He explained that the road project, being handled by Lagelu Local Government, would be extended to improve access to the facility.
The governor also promised that solar-powered streetlights would be installed along the road to enhance security, accessibility and comfort for residents and visitors.
He commended Lagelu Local Government for rehabilitating Akala Way, noting that the project demonstrated the role local governments in Oyo State were playing in grassroots development.
Governor Urges Wealthy Nigerians to Use Resources for Social Good
Makinde used the occasion to appeal to affluent and influential Nigerians to deploy their wealth, positions and intellect towards improving the lives of others.
He cautioned against using financial resources and social influence to intimidate or oppress people, stressing the importance of contributing positively to society.
“Stop using your wealth, your position and your influence to oppress others. Use your wealth, use your position and use your intellect to make life better for members of this society,” the governor said.
Makinde explained that he considered the commissioning important despite his busy schedule, which included a national campaign and a planned trip to Abuja for the unveiling of the Reset Agenda Manifesto.
Makinde Highlights Importance of Family Support for Elderly People
The Oyo governor also reflected on the importance of family support in Nigerian society, describing it as one of the country’s enduring strengths.
Drawing from personal experience, he disclosed that his late mother lived with him until her death.
Governor Seyi Makinde said the establishment of Joseph and Esther Homes for Senior Citizens would complement the culture of care and support for elderly people, particularly those who require a safe and dignified living environment.
The initiative, he added, underscores the importance of extending care and compassion beyond immediate family relationships.
Dignitaries Attend as Makinde Commissions Senior Citizens’ Home
The commissioning of the senior citizens’ home and the launch of Built from the Break attracted dignitaries, Nollywood personalities, community leaders and other well-wishers.
Members of the governor’s entourage included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; and Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Adelabu.
Others were Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun; Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Mr Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Arch. Abdulmojeed Mogbojubola; and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Segun Olayiwola.
Also present were Commissioner for Health, Dr (Mrs) Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; Executive Adviser on Health Intervention, Professor Temitope Alonge; and Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Mudasiru Kamorudeen, among other government officials.
The commissioning of Joseph and Esther Homes for Senior Citizens marks the launch of an initiative focused on elderly care and social support in Ibadan, while Makinde’s remarks highlighted the role of individuals and institutions in contributing to community welfare.
