The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has disbursed a total of N1.9 billion to elderly citizens across Nigeria to enhance their welfare and promote dignity in old age, the first lady, Oluremi Tinubu, disclosed.

The first lady said this at the third edition of the Elderly Support Scheme on Tuesday in Abuja, themed “Finding Joy in Old Age”.

The programme aims to improve seniors’ quality of life while recognising their significant contributions to national development.

The programme targets 9,500 elderly beneficiaries from all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and veterans of the defence and police services, ensuring nationwide coverage of the initiative.

Represented by the wife of the vice president, Nana Shettima, the first lady said the initiative reflected the administration’s compassion and commitment to social protection for senior citizens.

She noted that elderly citizens had made immense sacrifices to build the nation and deserved care, respect, and support in their later years as a moral and social responsibility.

Each beneficiary will receive N200,000, bringing the total disbursement to N1.9 billion, while each state, including the FCT, will receive N50 million to implement the programme effectively, according to the first lady.

She said RHI had made it a tradition to celebrate senior citizens every December in appreciation of their lifelong service, urging Nigerians to prioritise the welfare of the elderly, especially during the festive season.

She encouraged seniors to remain active and healthy through regular exercise, community engagement, and charitable activities, emphasising that joy in old age was built on compassion, strong community ties, and respect.

The first lady commended state coordinators and partners for supporting the programme nationwide and wished beneficiaries good health, a peaceful festive season, and renewed hope for the coming year.

Mariya Mahmoud, minister of state, FCT, lauded RHI for improving elderly welfare, describing the initiative as a vital step in promoting dignity, comfort, and care for senior citizens across Nigeria.

She urged continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the programme reached all eligible beneficiaries and achieved lasting impact on the lives of elderly citizens nationwide.

Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, RHI state coordinator, said joy had been restored to the lives of Nigeria’s elderly, emphasising that ageing should mean dignity, care, and continued relevance rather than neglect or loneliness.

She added, “Joy in old age is achieved when society embraces our elderly with empathy, support, and recognition. Our elders are seen, celebrated, valued, and remembered for their sacrifices.”

Beneficiaries commended RHI and the first lady for the care and support provided, highlighting the programme’s positive impact on their lives and wellbeing. 

(NAN)