By Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in a significant move to support the welfare of elderly citizens has empowered 250 senior citizens aged 65 and above in Kogi State under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme.
The event, which marked the second batch of the program, took place at the Government House in Lokoja and had beneficiaries drawn from all 21 local government areas of the state. Representing the First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, wife of the Kogi State Governor, highlighted the scale and importance of the initiative.
“About ₦2 billion will be disbursed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under this program,” Hajia Ododo stated. She revealed that each state, including DEPOWA (Defence and Police Officers Wives’ Association), has been allocated ₦50 million to facilitate the distribution, ensuring 250 beneficiaries per state receive ₦200,000 each, alongside free medical checkups and other essential items.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that the scheme is designed to address the challenges of old age and retirement, providing financial support and healthcare services to senior citizens. “This program is designed to support the welfare of our elderly citizens annually,” she explained.
Beyond the cash grants, the initiative also prioritizes healthcare, encouraging beneficiaries to prioritize their well-being through regular medical checkups.
“We want our senior citizens to be empowered to fend for themselves while also focusing on their health. Regular medical checkups and access to healthcare will ensure they live healthier, more comfortable lives,” Senator Tinubu added.
The RHI Elderly Support Scheme reflects the First Lady’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Nigeria’s aging population. With 250 beneficiaries in each state, the FCT, and veterans through DEPOWA, the program seeks to touch the lives of thousands of elderly citizens nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Hajia Ododo congratulated the beneficiaries for being selected and urged them to use the funds wisely. She also commended the First Lady’s vision for prioritizing the needs of the elderly, who often face unique challenges in retirement.
Many of the recipients expressed gratitude for the initiative, praising Senator Tinubu for her compassion and dedication to uplifting the elderly. For them, the financial support and healthcare provisions are timely interventions that will ease their burdens and improve their quality of life.
The program is part of the broader Renewed Hope Initiative, which seeks to deliver sustainable support to vulnerable groups across Nigeria, demonstrating the Tinubu administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and social welfare.
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