The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged the elderly to continue staying healthy and active, especially during the Yuletide season.
She made this call while speaking at the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme held in Abuja. Senator Tinubu explained that since the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the RHI has made it a tradition to celebrate Nigerians whose service has contributed to nation-building and the collective progress of the country.
“As we approach the festive season, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of prioritizing our elderly citizens in this programme. They have walked difficult paths so that younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. It is therefore our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health, and dignity,” she said.
She further advised senior citizens to do all they can to find joy in old age.
“Let us also find purpose in community, compassion, and care. Ageing gracefully is not just about longevity, but about being surrounded by love, support, and respect. 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. Those of us who are active should continue to engage in charitable work and, in so doing, find joy in helping others,” she added.
Senator Tinubu disclosed that the scheme is supporting 250 vulnerable veterans aged 65 years and above, with each beneficiary receiving ₦200,000, amounting to an estimated ₦1 billion nationwide. Food items were also distributed to beneficiaries as part of the intervention.
According to the First Lady, the programme is designed to ensure that veterans live their twilight years with dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Director of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Adepegba, stated that the RHI, through its various social investment programmes—particularly those targeted at Defence and Police officer veterans to enhance their well-being—underscores the importance the nation places on this group of individuals. He noted that these initiatives reflect the level of appreciation accorded them for their selflessness and dedication to national service.
“On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I express our profound gratitude to Her Excellency for this thoughtful intervention. Your commitment to inclusive welfare, particularly for senior citizens and veterans, reinforces morale within the Services and reassures serving personnel that their sacrifices will always be remembered and valued.
“I also commend the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), under the leadership of its President, Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, for its continued dedication to programmes that promote the welfare of officers’ families, veterans, and vulnerable members of our communities. Your partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative remains invaluable in advancing people-centred support initiatives.”
He added, “Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, the strength of any nation is measured not only by its defence capabilities but also by its compassion for those who served it faithfully. Programmes such as the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme reinforce our collective responsibility to uphold dignity, respect, and care for our elderly veterans, ensuring they age with honour and security.
“As we continue to discharge our constitutional responsibilities of defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria, the Armed Forces remain fully committed to supporting initiatives that promote welfare, unity, and national cohesion. We will continue to work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the sacrifices of our veterans are matched with care and recognition.”
The event also featured the symbolic presentation of ₦200,000 to beneficiaries by the First Lady of Nigeria. Free medical checks were conducted for the beneficiaries, who also received various food items for the festive season.
