The minister of state of the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud, has called on Nigerians to extend a hand of love and provide warmth to the elderly and the less privileged in society all year round.

Ms Mahmoud made the call during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) by the first lady, Oluremi Tinubu, in Abuja on Thursday.

She commended Ms Tinubu for the initiative, saying, “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our seniors, reminding them that they are cherished and valued members of our community. The scheme is not just to distribute items but also to express gratitude and respect for the wisdom and experience that elders bring.

“In the fast-paced world we live in, it is essential to pause and appreciate the pillars of our community—the elderly. Their stories, guidance, and enduring spirits have shaped our collective journey,” Ms Mahmoud. “A simple gift can bring a smile, warmth, and a sense of belonging to those who may feel overlooked or lonely, especially during this time of the year.”

Ms Mahmoud also said the mission of the Renewed Hope Initiative was not just about distributing material items but also about fostering a sense of community, compassion, and respect for the elders, youths, girls, children, and widows.

She said Mr Tinubu’s gesture reflects her commitment to ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who have paved the way for the young ones.

Ms Mahmoud urged Nigerians to engage with the elders, listen to their stories, and learn from their rich tapestry of life experiences.

“In doing so, we not only honour them but also create lasting connections that bridge the generations. To our dear elders, your presence enriches our lives, and today is a testament to our collective dedication to ensuring your happiness and comfort,” the minister said.

On her part, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, mandate secretary (Women Affairs Secretariat), Federal Capital Territory Administration, said 250 elderly persons from the six area councils of the FCT would benefit from the scheme.

Ms Benjamins-Laniyi added that other services lined up for the elderly include free medical checkups and free drugs, free eye checkups and glasses, free high blood pressure checkups and counselling, and enlistment in the National Health Insurance Scheme, among others.

She said the FCT minister Nyesom Wike and Mahmoud vigorously implemented President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This is exemplified in the creation of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, and of course, which culminates in the various intervention programmes we have carried out so far, especially our gathering here today,” she said.

While inaugurating the scheme, Ms Tinubu explained that the scheme, with the theme ‘Better Days Ahead’, would provide financial and other support to 9,250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above across the country.

The first lady, represented by the wife of Vice-President Nana Shettima, explained that the economic empowerment programme was borne out of a steadfast commitment to the well-being of elderly citizens. She said the development marks a significant stride in pursuing a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Ms Shettima said the scheme would support 9,250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above across the 36 states of the federation, 250 from each state and the Federal Capital Territory. She added that the beneficiaries also include veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).

She explained that the selected beneficiaries would receive N100,000 each to cushion the effect of the economic situation and alleviate elders’ burdens during the festive period.

She added that N950 million would be disbursed under the scheme, with each state expected to receive N25 million, as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

(NAN)