By Esther Akaa
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has given out fifty million naira N50m to 250 less-privileged elderly persons in Nasarawa State as part of her empowerment initiative.
The funds, disbursed through the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme is aimed to improve the livelihoods of these seniors.
Speaking at the disbursement exercise in Lafia, the First Lady explained that each of the 250 beneficiaries would receive N200,000 to support their old age experiences.
This initiative is part of a larger scheme that aims to support elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all the 36 states and the FCT.
The First Lady revealed that each State, the FCT, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association would receive N50 million, totaling N1.9 billion.
She explained that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda of the Federal Government, which seeks to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
The First Lady emphasised the importance of taking care of the elderly, especially during the festive season.
“The elderly citizens need to be taken care of, especially during this festive season to enable them enjoy the period.
“They have walked difficult paths so that the younger generations may have smoother roads to travel and it is our duty to make life worthwhile for them at this point.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to find joy in old age, community, compassion, and care, and to remember that old age is not just about longevity, but about being surrounded by love, support, and respect.
On her part, the First Lady of Nasarawa State, Hajiya Silifat Abdullahi-Sule, expressed her gratitude to the country’s First Lady for her love and care towards the state’s residents, especially the vulnerable groups.
She urged the beneficiaries to use the money to care for themselves and improve their livelihoods.
The First Lady also recalled that she had supported over 100,000 women petty traders, small business owners, and Persons Living With Disabilities with direct financial grants to grow their businesses in the last two years.