By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The wife of Nigeria’s President and National Chairman of Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, said N950 million to 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65wnd above in 36 states and Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and veterans from Defence and Police Officers wives Association (DEPOWA).

Tinubu revealed this in Abuja at the flag off of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, RHIESS, the event that was organized by FCT Women Affairs, Secretariat, she said each state will receive N25 million and each selected beneficiary will receive N100,000, the money is to cushion the effect of the economic situation and to alleviate the burdens of elders.

With the theme ‘Better Days Ahead,’ Tinubu who was represented by Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President and National Vice Chairman of RHI, according to her, “This economic and empowerment programme is borne out of steadfast commitment to the well-being of our elderly citizens and it marks a significant strid in our elderly citizens and it marks a significant stride in our collective pursuit of a more inclusive and compassionate society.

“This scheme is to support Two hundred and fifty, 250, vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in wll 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and veterans from Defence and Police Officers Wives Association, DEPOWA,. These selected beneficiaries will receive a sum of One hundred thousand Naira only, N100,000 each. This is to cushion the effect of the economic situation and to alleviate the burdens of our esteemed elders during this festive period.

“The total sum to be disbursed is Nine Hundred and Fifty Million Naira, N950,000,000, approved by the governing board of the RHI. Each state of the federation will receive the sun of Twenty -Five million Naira, N25,000,000. We are committed to ensuring that each state receives this gesture, without discrimination.

“As we approach the festive season, it becomes very important to emphasize the significance of prioritizing our elderly citizens in our initiatives. By reaching out to the elderly this festive period, we not only honour their contributions but also acknowledge the unique encounters they face.”

She therefore tasked the elderly to ensure they embrace life to the fullest and prioritize their health, nurture their minds, and strengthen their bonds with loved ones and with God, “These are the keys to a rich and fulfilling life in your golden years”.

She appreciated all state coordinators of RHI, and partners who have supported with free medical screening and the distribution of other sundry items to the beneficiaries as the case may be, in ensuring the success of the programme.

“This period should be a time of joy and comfort for all, even as we hope for a greater Nigeria, in security, education, health, employment and business opportunities for all. We seek your continued support and prayers for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, as we look forward to better days ahead.”

Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, FCT, in her welcome address tasked the younger generations to take a moment to engage with elders, to listen to their stories, and to learn from their rich tapestry of life experiences.

“Today, we gather not just to distribute items but to express our deep gratitude and respect for the wealth of wisdom and experience that our elders bring to our lives. In the fast-paced world we live in, it is essential to pause and appreciate the pillars of our community—the elderly. Their stories, guidance, and enduring spirits have shaped our collective journey.

“A simple gift can bring a smile, warmth, and a sense of belonging to those who may feel overlooked or lonely especially during this time of the year”.

 She added, “Therefore, today’s distribution is a small token of the First Lady’s appreciation, a gesture that reflects her commitment to ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who have paved the way for us. As we hand out these items, let us also Know In doing so, we not only honour them but also create lasting connections that bridge the generations”.

The FCT mandate Secretary Women affairs, Mrs Adebayo Benjamins-Laniyi in her vote of thanked the first lady for her gesture.

“This programme is specially organized for the First Lady to interface with our elderly parents from the age of 65 and above. You would agree with me that people within this age brackets need special attention, because of various factors associated with aging, in the lives of the people concerned. Therefore in furtherance of Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the First Lady has taken it up as a Renewed Hope Initiative, to reach out to the elderly persons among us, with a singular aim of putting a smile on their face during this festive period,” she said.