No fewer than 250 Osun State indigenes has benefitted from the N25,000,000 grant from the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, RHIESS, organised by Nigerian First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu.
Mrs Tinubu who was represented by Osun Governor’s wife, Mrs Titilola Adeleke at the maiden edition of the scheme, themed: “Better Days Ahead” on Thursday in Osogbo, said the beneficiaries would received the sum of N100, 000 each.
She noted that the empowerment programme is meant to cushion the effect of economic situation and to alleviate burdens of the elders during this festive period.
According to her; “This economic empowerment programme is borne out of a steadfast commitment to the well-being of our elderly citizens and it marks a significant stride in our collective pursuit of a more inclusive and compassionate society.
“This scheme is to support Two Hundred and Fifty (250) vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
“These selected beneficiaries will receive a sum of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000) each. This is to cushion the effect of the economic situation and to alleviate the burdens of our esteemed elders during this festive period.
“The total sum to be disbursed is Nine Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N950,000,000) as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state of the federation will receive the sum of Twenty-Five Million Naira (N25,000,000). We are committed to ensuring that each state receives this gesture, without discrimination.
“This period should be a time of joy and comfort for all, even as we hope for a greater Nigeria, in security, education, health, employment and business opportunities for all. We seek your continued support and prayers for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, as we look forward to better days ahead.
“Thank you, and may this programme serve as a beacon of renewed hope, dignity, and prosperity for our revered elders of the nation.
“I seize this opportunity to wish you Happy holidays ahead and I pray that 2024 will be a fruitful and fulfilling year for us all.”
However, the First Lady urged the elderly citizens to embrace life to the fullest, prioritize their health, nurture their minds, and strengthen their bonds with loved ones and with God.
A beneficiary, Mr Odegbile Peter lauded Mrs Tinubu for the initiative, stating that it came when it was least expected and promised to use the money given judiciously.
Mrs Comfort Oyedeji, who is also a beneficiary expressed how joyful she was to have benefitted from the scheme.
