The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to prioritise the welfare of elderly citizens, stressing society’s moral responsibility to ensure they live their later years in dignity, comfort and good health.
Tinubu made the call on Tuesday during the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) at Mambilla Barracks, Abuja, where she supported 250 elderly military and police veterans with cash and food palliatives.
She described the initiative as a social investment programme designed to promote dignity, comfort and well-being for senior citizens, particularly those aged 65 years and above.
The First Lady said the scheme, which began in 2025, was created to celebrate the contributions and sacrifices of senior citizens to nation-building. According to her, the 2025 edition will support 9,500 beneficiaries nationwide, including elderly citizens across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and veterans.
“Each beneficiary will receive N200,000, bringing the total disbursement to N1.9 billion,” she said.
Tinubu encouraged elderly Nigerians to adopt healthy lifestyles, remain active and nurture both their physical and mental well-being. She also urged Nigerians to embrace compassion, community support and charitable acts that promote joy and solidarity.
“As we approach the festive season, it is crucial to prioritise our elderly citizens. They have walked difficult paths so younger generations may have smoother roads. It is our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure they live their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity,” she said.
In a goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), represented by Rear Adm. Adisa Adegbenga, described the initiative as a reflection of compassion, patriotism and purposeful leadership. He commended the First Lady for her commitment to the welfare of elderly military and police veterans who served the nation with courage and sacrifice.
Also speaking, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Mernan Oluyede, said the RHIESS demonstrated collective gratitude and responsibility toward elderly veterans who devoted their lives to national security.
She noted that the programme ensured that no veteran and no region was left behind, praising the First Lady for her consistent support and deep appreciation of the sacrifices made by elderly military and police personnel.