Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her foundation, the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), has distributed N25 million to each of Nigeria’s 36 states to help alleviate the burden of economic hardship during the festive season.
The initiative was launched simultaneously across all states and Abuja, resulting in a total of N950 million disbursed, as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state received N25 million to support the elderly.
Support for the Elderly in Lagos
Individuals aged 65 and above benefited from the scheme, receiving free one-year health insurance under the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (LASHMA), thanks to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
At the ceremony held at the Government House in Alausa, Ikeja, the governor’s wife, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, promised that the state would replicate the initiative, ensuring that even more elderly citizens benefit from it by February 2024.
First Lady’s Vision for Elderly Empowerment
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Tinubu, explained that RHIESS, themed “Better Days Ahead,” serves as an economic empowerment program rooted in a strong commitment to the well-being of the nation’s elderly citizens. She noted that the scheme represents a significant step forward in the current administration’s efforts to build a better future for all Nigerians.
N100,000 for Elderly Beneficiaries Across Nigeria
President Tinubu’s speech, read by Dr. Sanwo-Olu, emphasized that the scheme aimed to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all 36 states of the federation, as well as veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), with each elder receiving N100,000. The initiative also aims to offer support to elderly individuals during the festive period.
Honoring Elderly Citizens During the Festive Season
“As we approach the festive season, it becomes essential to emphasise the significance of prioritising our elderly citizens in our initiatives. By reaching out to the elderly this festive period, we honour their contributions and acknowledge the unique challenges they face,” Tinubu stated.
The First Lady commended the wives of governors across the country, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) state coordinators, and the programme’s partners for their contributions to its success, particularly in providing free medical screening and distributing essential items to beneficiaries. She emphasized that this should be a time of joy and comfort for all, adding, “Even as we hope for a greater Nigeria, in security, education, health, employment, and business opportunities for all.” She also called for continued support and prayers for President Tinubu’s administration, expressing optimism for better days ahead.
