Amidst economic hardship, the Oluwafemi Oparinde Foundation, based in Ilorin, has provided financial support and healthcare outreach to over 1,000 pensioners in the state. Speaking at the event in Ilorin on Tuesday, the founder, Mr Oluwafemi Adesola Oparinde, explained that the foundation, established in 2020, aims to enhance the lives of disadvantaged individuals and stimulate socio-economic growth within the community.

According to him, “Retirement is not the end of a journey; rather, it is a stage of life that deserves dignity, respect and support”.

He said: “Our retirees have spent decades in service – shaping our communities, building our institutions, and laying the foundation for the progress we enjoy today.

“They (retirees) have given their time, energy, and wisdom to this nation, and now it is our turn to give back.

“Through the Oluwafemi Oparinde Foundation, our mission has always been to empower communities and uplift lives”.

Oparinde added, “When we started this journey in 2020, our goal was to cushion the harsh effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly here in Ilorin.

“Over the years, we have expanded our reach – supporting education, empowering entrepreneurs, and assisting the less privileged.

“Today's event is a continuation of that vision: to ensure that our senior citizens are not forgotten but cherished, celebrated, and supported.

“This programme is a testament to the power of collective responsibility. We are here to provide financial assistance to 1,000 retirees, offer free medical outreach, and create an atmosphere of joy and appreciation.

“This is not just charity; it is a moral obligation—a duty to those who have paved the way for us.

“To our senior citizens present today, I say this: You are valued, you are appreciated, and your contributions will never be forgotten.

“May this event serve as a reminder that you are an integral part of our society, and as long as we stand, we will continue to support you.

Earlier, the guest speaker of the event, Chief Iyiola Oyedepo, urged the government to disengage pensioners a year to the end of retirement and train them in what they'll do after retirement.

Oyedepo who said the intending retiree should be paid the one-year salary stated the state government should ensure that retirees are paid their gratuity at most three months after retirement.

He said its high time government stop making life miserable for retirees after service to their fatherland, stressing that the proposal would make retirees contribute to the economic development of the state.