First Lady Donates N1.9bn To Elderly Persons Nationwide
The Nigerian First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has donated a total of N1.9 billion to elderly citizens across the country through the second edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme (RHEISS). The program, which is designed to support the welfare of the elderly, saw 250 elderly beneficiaries from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as military veterans, each receiving N200,000.
The First Lady, who initiated the scheme, emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and spending quality time with loved ones, particularly during the festive season. The donation was part of a broader effort to provide financial support and wellness services to the elderly.
In her address, the First Lady noted that the Governing Board of the RHI had increased the grant from N100,000 to N200,000 this year to offer more support to elderly citizens. A total of N1.9 billion will be distributed across the nation, with each RHI Coordinator in the 36 states, the FCT, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) receiving N50 million. The donation also includes free medical check-ups and other sundry items for the beneficiaries.
The First Lady reiterated the government’s commitment to the well-being of Nigerians, particularly the elderly, assuring them that they are loved and not forgotten, especially during the festive season. The program, which will be held annually, is part of the First Lady’s vision to ensure the welfare and happiness of senior citizens.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, also commended the First Lady’s efforts, highlighting the support for veterans and their widows. He assured Nigerians that things were improving under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, as the country continues to make progress. In addition to the N200,000 donation for the elderly, the Ministry of Defence will support an additional 250 veterans with similar financial assistance.
The event, which included free medical check-ups and the provision of food items, was a significant gesture towards enhancing the quality of life for Nigeria’s elderly citizens and military veterans.