Renewed Hope Initiative Disburses N1.9 Billion to 9,500 Elderly Nigerians
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has flagged off the disbursement of N1.9 billion to 9,500 vulnerable senior citizens across the nation.
The initiative, part of the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), is designed to provide direct financial support to the elderly.
Representing the nation’s First Lady at the Flag-off of disbursement at Government House, Uyo on Tuesday, Coordinator, Office of Akwa Ibom First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki explained that N200,000 will be disbursed to 250 elderly persons aged 65 and above in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Sen Tinubu explained further that other beneficiaries will be drawn from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA). This translates to a disbursement of N50 million per participating entity, as approved by the RHI Governing Board.
In her words “The total sum to be disbursed is N1.9 billion. 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.”
Senator Tinubu explained that the programme, launched in 2023, has become an annual intervention designed to acknowledge the contributions of senior citizens to national progress and offer crucial social protection.
“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 said.
Speaking on the theme, “Finding Joy in Old Age,” the First Lady encouraged senior citizens to maintain active and engaged lifestyles. She also called on communities and governments to prioritise the welfare of the elderly.
“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 further advised the beneficiaries to “stay healthy and active” and to continue contributing to society through community and charitable activities.
The First Lady commending Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and the state RHI coordinator for their support, and extended her best wishes to the beneficiaries for a peaceful festive season and a hopeful new year.
“May 2026 bring renewed hope and greater accomplishments for us all and our beloved nation,” she added.