By DADA AYOKHAI
The First Lady , Senator Remi Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens as she presided over the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) in Benin City.
The event which took place on Tuesday was held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, had the theme “Finding Joy in Old Age” and formed part of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s annual social investment programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of elderly Nigerians.
Speaking at the occasion, the First Lady described the scheme as a demonstration of a compassionate government that values the dignity, comfort, and wellbeing of its elderly population.
Senator Tinubu was represented by the Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani. She noted that since the inception of the current administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has consistently celebrated senior citizens every December in recognition of their immense contributions to nation-building.
Senator Tinubu noted that the scheme, will capture a total of 9,500 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 years and above across the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA). Each beneficiary will receive the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira, (₦200,000).
She disclosed that the total amount approved for disbursement is ₦1.9 billion, as sanctioned by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. She added that each state of the federation, including the FCT and DEPOWA, will receive ₦50 million to support selected beneficiaries.
“As we approach the festive season, it is important that we prioritise our elderly citizens. They have walked difficult paths so that younger generations may enjoy smoother roads. It is our moral duty and joy to ensure they live their later years in comfort, good health, and dignity,” she said.
The First Lady encouraged senior citizens to remain hopeful, active, and engaged, stressing that ageing gracefully goes beyond longevity to include community, compassion, and care. She also urged those who are able to continue contributing to society through charitable activities and meaningful engagements.
Senator Tinubu expressed gratitude to the beneficiaries for their service, sacrifices, and prayers for the nation, while also appreciating Edo state governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, State coordinators of the Renewed Hope Initiative, and partner organisations for their continued support.
She concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful and joyous festive season and expressed optimism that the year 2026 would bring renewed hope and greater accomplishments for the country.
In his goodwill message, the Special Adviser on Health to the Edo State Government, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, underscored the importance of empowering vulnerable groups, describing care for the elderly and the poor as a service to God and humanity.
Dr. Iyamu also offered practical health advice to senior citizens, cautioning them against rising abruptly from bed in the morning. He advised the elderly to sit for two to three minutes before standing, explaining that this helps prevent postural hypotension a sudden drop in blood pressure that can cause dizziness or collapse.
He further encouraged elderly persons to engage in light physical exercise between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m,noting that exposure to early morning sunlight enhances Vitamin D production, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. However, he warned against exercising under the harsh afternoon sun, citing the increased risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
Dr Iyamu also strongly cautioned against self-medication, particularly the habit of purchasing drugs from pharmacies without proper medical diagnosis. He urged senior citizens to undergo necessary medical tests and adhere strictly to doctors’ prescriptions, stressing that proactive health checks and professional medical care are essential to maintaining good health, even when they involve financial costs.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Madam Agnes Akhamentalor from Edo Central, Mrs. George Abhulimen from Oredo, Mr. Etiake Bernard, and Mrs. Emorkidi Kate from Edo North, expressed their appreciation to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her support and kindness.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Wife of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hajiya Nimata Umar Ikhilor; the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Religious Matters and Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Apostle Faraday Sule; the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Drugs and Health Commodity Management Agency, Pharm. Kenny Okojie; the APC State Woman Leader, Mrs. Betty Okoebor; and the Executive Chairman, Board of Technical Education, Mrs. Onome Briggs, among others.
