Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, commissioned a senior citizens’ home known as Joseph & Esther Homes for Senior Citizens, built by veteran Nollywood actress, Sola Sobowale.
The event, held in Akobo, Ibadan, also witnessed the launching of a book, Built from the Break, authored by the renowned actress.
Joseph & Esther Senior Citizens’ Home on board
Speaking at the commissioning, the governor called on well-meaning Nigerians with resources, influence and privilege to use them to improve the society, rather than oppress others.
He congratulated Sobowale, describing her vision as quiet but deeply impactful.
According to him, the initiative, which provides a safe, secure and dignified environment for elderly people, has reinforced the traditional value of caring for parents and senior citizens in old age.
The governor also commended the author for writing Built from the Break, noting that publishing a book required courage, discipline and commitment.
Makinde recalled his own experience shortly after assuming office when he sought to publish a compilation of his thoughts and aspirations for Oyo State.
He disclosed that he abandoned the project after pirated copies surfaced in circulation before the original publication left the printers.
He described the book as a highly recommended read and promised to feature it among the books he would review on social media before the end of this year.
The governor further announced that the access road leading to the facility, currently being rehabilitated by Lagelu Local Government Area, would be extended to the frontage of the home and fitted with solar-powered streetlights to improve accessibility and comfort for residents.
He noted that he was in the midst of a national campaign and would proceed to Abuja after the event to unveil the Reset Agenda Manifesto, adding that he considered the occasion important because of its significance to the welfare of senior citizens.
He described the establishment of the home as an extraordinary gesture inspired by Sobowale’s love for her parents and concern for the elderly.
According to him, while public attention often gravitates toward large and highly visible projects, initiatives that directly improve lives were often the ones with the most enduring impact.
The governor also praised Lagelu Local Government Area for the ongoing rehabilitation of Akala Way, saying the project demonstrated that local governments in Oyo State were contributing meaningfully to development.
Drawing from his personal experience, Makinde said Nigeria’s family support system remained one of the country’s strengths, noting that his late mother lived with him until her passing.
He added that the senior citizens’ home would further strengthen that culture of care and support for the elderly.
He urged affluent members of society to channel their resources and influence toward positive causes, saying:
“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,” he declared.
The event attracted dignitaries, Nollywood personalities, community leaders and other well-wishers.
On the governor’s entourage were the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Adelabu;
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun; and Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Arch. Abdulmojeed Mogbojubola;
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Segun Olayiwola; Commissioner for Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi;
Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor (General Duties), Chief Bayo Lawal; Executive Adviser on Health Intervention, Professor Temitope Alonge; and the Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Mudasiru Kamorudeen, among other government functionaries.
