The Lagos Chapter of the Benin Technical College Old Students Association (BETECOSA) has ushered in a new era with the inauguration of Sir Ralph Jakpor Karireren as chairman, setting the stage for what promises to be a welfare-driven administration.
Karireren, who will steer the affairs of the association over the next two years, wasted no time in outlining an ambitious agenda anchored on members’ wellbeing, signalling a decisive shift towards structured support systems.
At the heart of his policy thrust are three flagship initiatives, group life insurance, health insurance, and a cooperative scheme, designed as a strategic buffer to cushion members against economic and social uncertainties.
He explained that the group life insurance plan would guarantee a minimum payout of N1.5 million to the families of deceased members, offering a measure of financial relief during difficult times.
The proposed health insurance scheme, he added, is structured to ensure members have access to quality medical care nationwide, particularly during periods of financial strain.
Karireren further disclosed that the cooperative framework would enable members to pool resources, access credit facilities, and support small-scale business ventures, with borrowing capacity tied to individual contributions.
He noted that the welfare blueprint is particularly targeted at older members in their 50s and above, while also positioning the association as a support hub for younger alumni seeking growth and mentorship.
In a forward-looking move, the chairman revealed plans to implement the welfare programmes before launching an aggressive membership drive aimed at attracting younger graduates into the fold.
Earlier, outgoing chairman, Dr. Festus Omorusi, described the transition as both a handover and a fresh beginning, expressing confidence in the new leadership to consolidate on gains recorded during his tenure, including membership expansion and institutional contributions.
Other stakeholders, including Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr. Monday Kanu, and legal practitioner, Barrister Larry Ofulue, lauded the smooth transition, expressing optimism that the new executive would deepen welfare initiatives, strengthen unity, and reposition BETECOSA Lagos for greater impact.