The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has extended financial support totaling N50 million to 250 elderly citizens in Ekiti State, with each beneficiary receiving the sum of N200,000 under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme.
The presentation, which took place at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti, formed part of the third edition of the Elderly Support Scheme tagged ‘Finding Joy in Old Age’.
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu who was represented by the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who is also the state coordinator of RHI, disclosed that the programme is being implemented simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including beneficiaries drawn from veterans of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
Tinubu noted that a total of 9,500 elderly citizens have been selected nationwide to benefit from the scheme, a move that underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.
She explained that the Governing Board of the RHI approved the disbursement of a total sum of N1.9 billion for the exercise, with each state of the federation, the FCT and DEPOWA receiving N50 million.
According to her, the initiative goes beyond financial assistance, as it also promotes healthy and active ageing. She encouraged beneficiaries to prioritise their wellbeing by engaging in regular physical exercise and meaningful activities that would keep both their bodies and minds active.
‘The Renewed Hope Initiative is about restoring dignity and ensuring that our elderly citizens find joy and fulfilment in their later years. This support is designed to help them live healthier and happier lives’, She said.
The National Chairman of RHI further noted that since the inception of the current administration in 2023, the initiative has consistently celebrated senior citizens every December in recognition of their invaluable contributions to national development.
Oyebanji expressed profound appreciation to the Convener of the RHI for sustaining the Elderly Support Scheme.
She described the programme as a reflection of the First Lady’s tireless commitment to improving the wellbeing of senior citizens and veterans across the country.
Oyebanji urged beneficiaries in the state to utilise the financial support judiciously, especially during the festive season, emphasising the importance of meeting essential needs such as food, healthcare and medication where necessary.
In their separate messages of appreciation, Elder Gabriel Oni and Chief Musili Eyemugbayeho expressed gratitude to the wife of the President and the state Coordinator of RHI for their care and concern for senior citizens in Nigeria.
They pledged their continued support for the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the Ekiti State Government, while also offering prayers for the success of the governments.
The event attracted government officials, community leaders and other stakeholders, who commended the Renewed Hope Initiative for its impactful intervention, describing it as a timely gesture that reinforces the government’s resolve to ensure that elderly Nigerians live with dignity, comfort and joy.
Earlier, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, through the state medical team, also provided free medical consultation for the senior citizens who benefited from the gesture of the nation’s First Lady.
