Governor Francis Nwifuru has approved N100,000 as additional pay to each civil servant in Ebonyi as a Christmas bonus.

Mr Nwifuru announced this on Thursday, during the maiden edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) of Nigeria’s first lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

“I have seen that the contribution I made earlier to the workers as Government was not sufficient, and that’s why I have decided to take a bold step; it is very hard, but I have to do it.

“The workers of the state must live like others in this Christmas period,” the governor added.

Ms Tinubu said the RHIESS governing body approved N950 million to support no fewer than 250 vulnerable elderly citizens in the country.

She said the elderly, 65 years and above, were selected in 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Ms Tinubu said the beneficiaries would receive N100,000 each.

They include veterans from the defence and police and officers’ wives association.

“This is to cushion the effect of the economic situation and to alleviate the burden of our esteemed elders during this festive period,” Ms Tinubu said.

She urged the senior citizens to embrace life to the fullest, prioritise their health, nurture their minds and strengthen with God as keys to a rich, fulfilling life. 

(NAN)