Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 vulnerable elderly indigents in Kebbi State with N200,000 each under the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, a programme aimed at promoting the well-being of senior citizens and helping them live with dignity and joy.
The empowerment programme, themed “Finding joy in old age,” is the third edition of the initiative and targets elderly citizens aged 65 years and above. Beneficiaries include vulnerable men and women, as well as veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.
The event was held on Wednesday at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Birnin Kebbi. Senator Tinubu was represented at the ceremony by the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajia Zainab Nasare Nasir, who was further represented by the wife of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Hajia Uwani Ankwa.
Speaking at the event, Hajia Zainab Nasare Nasir said that since the inception of the current administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has become a tradition celebrated every December to honour senior citizens for their contributions to nation-building.
She said, “This social investment programme embodies the ongoing effort to ensure that elderly citizens live with dignity and joy, in a nation that genuinely cares for its own. This is in addition to free medical outreach and provision of assorted food items.”
She advised beneficiaries to remain positive and seek happiness in old age by finding purpose in their communities.
“I encourage you to continue playing your part by staying healthy and active. Nurture both your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful engagement,” she said.
Hajia Nasare also expressed appreciation to all state coordinators of RHI and its partners for supporting the successful implementation of the scheme across the country. The scheme focuses on support for elderly citizens.
“As the year draws to a close, I wish you a peaceful holiday season and pray that 2026 brings renewed hope for our nation,” she added.
