The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday disbursed N50 million to 250 elderly, vulnerable citizens in Nasarawa State under the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme. The beneficiaries, aged 65 and above, were drawn from all 13 local government areas of the state.
Speaking at the event in Lafia, the state capital, Tinubu emphasized that the scheme was designed to improve the welfare of senior citizens across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Aisha Rufai-Ibrahim, Tinubu revealed that a total of N1.9 billion has been earmarked for the program nationwide to alleviate the economic challenges faced by the elderly.
“The Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has decided to increase the initial grant from N100,000 to N200,000 per beneficiary this year,” Tinubu announced. “This increase is aimed at providing further support to our elderly citizens during this festive season.”
She also noted that veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) would be included among the beneficiaries of the initiative.
In addition to the financial aid, Tinubu announced plans to commence free medical care for the elderly nationwide to improve their health and well-being. She expressed gratitude to Nasarawa State First Lady Salifat Abdullahi-Sule and other state First Ladies for their commitment to the welfare of their citizens.
During the event, Abdullahi-Sule carried out a symbolic presentation of cash and wrappers to the beneficiaries. She lauded Tinubu’s efforts, urging the recipients to use the money wisely and for meaningful purposes.
The Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of Nigeria’s aging population and ensuring a dignified life for the country’s senior citizens.