Nigeria First Lady Empowers 250 Elderly Citizens in Edo

Nigeria First Lady Empowers 250 Elderly Citizens in Edo

Habiba Sam 

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to the welfare of senior citizens with the disbursement of funds to 250 elderly individuals in Edo State. 

The event, held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative's Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), which aims to improve the quality of life of elderly Nigerians.

Representing the First, Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, the initiative has brought hope and joy to many elderly citizens who have been struggling to make ends meet.

The scheme, which is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative's annual social investment programs, aims to capture a total of 9,500 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 years and above across the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers' Wives Association (DEPOWA).

 Each beneficiary will receive the sum of ₦200,000, with a total amount of ₦1.9 billion approved for disbursement

In her remarks, Senator Tinubu described the scheme as a demonstration of a compassionate government that values the dignity, comfort, and well-being of its elderly population. 

She urged senior citizens to remain hopeful, active, and engaged, stressing that ageing gracefully goes beyond longevity to include community, compassion, and care.

The First Lady also encouraged those who are able to continue contributing to society through charitable activities and meaningful engagements. 

She expressed gratitude to the beneficiaries for their service, sacrifices, and prayers for the nation, while also appreciating Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, State Coordinators of the Renewed Hope Initiative, and partner organizations for their continued support.

In a goodwill message, the Special Adviser on Health to the Edo State Government, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, underscored the importance of empowering vulnerable groups, describing care for the elderly and the poor as a service to God and humanity. 

He offered practical health advice to senior citizens, cautioning them against rising abruptly from bed in the morning and encouraging them to engage in light physical exercise and undergo regular medical check-ups.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Wife of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hajiya Nimata Umar Ikhilor; the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Religious Matters and Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Apostle Faraday Sule; and the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Drugs and Health Commodity Management Agency, Pharm. Kenny Okojie, among others.

The beneficiaries, who expressed their appreciation to the First Lady for her kindness and support, were visibly moved by the gesture.

 The scheme is a testament to the government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.