Abia State government uncovers 106-year-old Akara vendor, provides her with a monthly allowance
The Abia State government has extended a monthly allowance to Ma Chidinma Eluwa, a 106-year-old Akara seller renowned in the Owerri Road vicinity, near Isigate, in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State.
Additionally, the government aims to enhance Mama Eluwa's business operations in recognition of her contributions to the local community.
Mama Eluwa, who lost her husband several years ago, is now caring for her sole surviving son.
However, despite facing the adversity of losing her family, she remained undeterred and continued to skillfully fry the local delicacy for her loyal customers, defying the passage of time.
On the 29th of July, 2023, the venerable vendor was spotted at her stall by Abia State Governor's Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, who was returning from an environmental cleanup inspection.
The Chief of Staff was drawn to the sight of a substantial queue of customers eager to savor Mama Eluwa's delectable offerings. Upon inquiring, he learned that she had been devoted to the Akara trade for countless years. This discovery led the Chief of Staff to propose her name for a special government initiative after engaging in a meaningful conversation with her.
Following his return to the government house in Umuahia, the Chief of Staff recommended his remarkable find to the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Vulnerable Groups and Poverty Alleviation. This department, after conducting a thorough investigation into Mama Eluwa's history in the Akara frying business, assumed responsibility for her case.
On the 9th of August 2023, Mama Chidinma Eluwa received an invitation to meet with Mrs. Ifeoma Thomas, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Vulnerable Groups and Poverty Alleviation. During the meeting, Mrs. Thomas announced various financial aids and business sustainability strategies tailored for Mama Eluwa.
To facilitate the process, Mama Eluwa was duly registered in the National Identity Numbers (NIN) system, paving the way for the establishment of a dedicated bank account. This account will streamline the convenient deposit of her monthly stipends, acknowledging her enduring dedication as a resilient trader.
Furthermore, the Abia State government is actively preparing to enhance her business prospects by extending financial backing. Alongside this, there are ongoing arrangements to commemorate her upcoming birthday and her remarkable longevity.
In her response, Mama Chidinma Eluwa expressed her gratitude towards Governor Alex Otti, Chief of Staff Caleb Ajagba, and Mrs. Ifeoma Thomas, the Special Assistant to the Governor on vulnerable groups and poverty alleviation, for their genuine interest and support in her well-being.
She expressed that the assistance provided by the Abia State government would contribute to her prolonged presence on this earth.
In her counsel to the younger generation, she urged them to distance themselves from criminal activities, concentrate on their education, and equip themselves with valuable skills to enhance society.
Furthermore, Mrs. Ifeoma Thomas, the Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on vulnerable groups and poverty alleviation, also addressed the matter, stating, "We are committed to assigning her a monthly stipend and establishing a bank account in her name. Initially, we have successfully registered both her and her son with the Nigerian Identity Management Agency (NIMC). Subsequently, we will proceed to create an account in her name, with her brother entrusted to manage the associated ATM card."
She continued, "This approach will enable us to seamlessly deposit her stipend into the designated account at the conclusion of each month."
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