The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday, disbursed N1.9 billion to 9,500 vulnerable elderly citizens across the country under the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS).
Mrs Tinubu, who was represented by the coordinator of the office of the first lady of Akwa Ibom State, Helen Eno Obareki, announced this at the third edition of RHIESS, held at the Government House Banquet Hall, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
According to her, the scheme will provide ₦200,000 each to 250 elderly persons aged 65 and above in every state of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and beneficiaries drawn from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
She said each state, including the FCT and DEPOWA, will receive N50 million as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative.
“The total sum to be disbursed is ₦1,900,000,000, as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. This scheme is to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all the 36 states of the federation, the FCT and veterans from DEPOWA”, the First Lady said.
She said the programme, introduced in 2023, had become an annual intervention aimed at recognising the contributions of senior citizens to national development and providing social protection for those in need.
“Since the inception of this administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has made it a tradition to celebrate our senior citizens every December, in recognition of their invaluable contributions to nation-building”, she stated.
Speaking on the theme, Finding Joy in Old Age, Mrs Tinubu urged senior citizens to remain active and engaged, while encouraging communities and governments to prioritise their welfare.
“They have walked difficult paths so that the younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. It is therefore our moral duty to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity”, she said.
She advised elderly Nigerians to “stay healthy and active” and to continue contributing to society through community and charitable engagements.
The First Lady also commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and the state coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative for their support, and wished beneficiaries a peaceful festive season.
“May 2026 bring renewed hope and greater accomplishments for us all and our beloved nation”, she concluded.
