The cash support, amounting to N200,000 for each beneficiary, was presented in Akure under the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, marking its third edition since the inception of the programme.
Represented by the wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs Seun Aiyedatiwa, the First Lady said the latest edition of the scheme, tagged “Finding Joy in Old Age,” was aimed at ensuring senior citizens live with dignity and fulfilment.
She explained that the initiative is a social investment programme designed to recognise and support elderly Nigerians who have contributed to nation building, adding that since 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has consistently celebrated senior citizens every December.
“Through this scheme, we continue to express our gratitude and care for the men and women who have laboured to build the Nigeria we are proud of today.
“This scheme supports 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 years and above in all the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
“A total of 9,500 beneficiaries will receive N200,000 each.
“The total sum of N1.9 billion has been approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative for the exercise.
“Each state of the federation, including the FCT and DEPOWA, will receive N50 million,” she stated.
Mrs Tinubu stressed the need for government and society to prioritise the welfare of elderly citizens, describing them as individuals who had paved the way for younger generations.
“They have walked difficult paths so that younger generations may have smoother roads to travel.
“It is therefore our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity,” she said.
She urged senior citizens to embrace ageing with joy and encouraged society to show them compassion, care and respect.
“Ageing gracefully is not just about longevity, but about being surrounded by love, support and respect.
“I encourage you to remain healthy and active by nurturing both your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful engagement.
“Those who are still active should continue to engage in charitable work and find joy in helping others,” she said.
In her remarks, the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, commended the initiative, noting that old age was a stage everyone hoped to attain.
Osamaye said many elderly women were vulnerable and expressed confidence that the scheme would significantly ease their challenges.
She advised the beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously to meet their basic needs and improve their wellbeing.
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