Remi Tinubu Doles Out N950m to 250 Elderly Citizens Nationwide

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commenced the maiden edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, RHI, on Thursday in Abuja, with the sum of N950,000,000 (nine hundred and fifty million Naira) to support and empower 250 elderly citizens aged 65 years and older across the country out of economic hardship.

The First Lady, represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, also the National Vice Chairman of the RHI, said that this is the first of its kind in the nation.

The RHI scheme programme, which is held in 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is for the elderly and other selected beneficiaries, who will each receive the sum of one hundred thousand naira (N100,000) to cushion the effect of the economic crunch and alleviate the burden of the elderly during this festive period.

Senator Tinubu said: “The total sum to be disbursed is Nine Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N950,000,000) as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state of the federation will receive the sum of twenty-five million naira (N25,000,000). We are committed to ensuring that each state receives this gesture without discrimination.”

She noted that it is imperative to prioritise elderly citizens, particularly during this festive period, not only to acknowledge their contributions but also to acknowledge the encounters they face.

Sen. Tinubu further advised the senior citizens to prioritise their health, nurture their minds, and strengthen their bonds with loved ones and God.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, noted that the distribution of cash and items is also to show gratitude for their wealth of wisdom and experience.

“As we hand out these items, let us also take a moment to engage with our elders, to listen to their stories, and to learn from their rich tapestry of life experiences.”

The Minister also urged other critical stakeholders to emulate the First Lady’s gesture to show love and warmth to the elderly and those with less privilege throughout the year.

The Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Hon. Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, stated that the First Lady Renewed Initiative is to reach out to the elderly in society to put a smile on their faces during this festive period.