One thousand and seventy nine widows and orphans of fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces have received financial support of N250,000 each, courtesy of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) an initiative of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The support, which amounted to N427.75 million, is part of RHI’s social investment programme, designed to advance the welfare of vulnerable groups in the country.
Presenting the relief package to the beneficiaries drawn from across the country, Mrs Tinubu said that, as wives of gallant soldiers, their path is not an easy one, but filled with uncertainties.
She emphasised that the sacrifices of their breadwinners, who had paid the ultimate price in the defence of the country, must be rewarded with provision of adequate welfare.
While expressing hope that the intervention would offer some measure of relief to the beneficiaries, the First Lady called on other stakeholders to spare a thought for dependants of fallen soldiers.
“Under the social investment programme of the Renewed Hope Initiative, we are here to empower 1,709 widows with N250,000 each. This will enable you to recapitalise an existing business or start a business of your choice to enable you care for your families. We recognise that widows are not victims; they are survivors. You have shown extraordinary courage in the face of adversity, and we are here to offer a helping hand as you chart a new path forward. Some of you have been widows for some time, and we hope that the older widows will give emotional support to the younger ones”.
In a goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa appreciated the First Lady and RHI for the kind and thoughtful gesture, which he said showed that the welfare of widows is a priority for her.
Represented by Major-General Danladi Salisu, the CDS said that the financial support has brought renewed hope to the families of fallen heroes, and would consequently boost the morale of serving members of the Armed Forces.
The President of Defence and Police Officers Wives Association, who is also wife of the CDS, Mrs. Oghogho Musa received the donation on behalf of beneficiaries, and applauded the intervention, describing it as a much-needed relief for the beneficiaries.
Beeneficiaries were drawn from the Nigeria Army Officers Wives Association, the Nigerian Navy Officers Wives Association, the Nigerian Navy Officers Wives Association, the Police Officers Wives Association, and the Defence Officers Wives association, DEPOWA.
