The First Lady of the Federation, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has launched the second edition of the Social Investment Scheme for elderly men and women in Ogun State, under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of the President Tinubu led-administration, with two hundred thousand naira (N200,000) per beneficiary.

The programme was held simultaneously in the 36 states of the federation, that of Ogun State was held at the Presidential Lodge (GRA), Ibara, Abeokuta, with 250 beneficiaries, across the 20 Local Government areas of the State.

According to the First Lady, who was represented by the Wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the programme was an annual event to support the welfare of the elderly citizens, aged 65 and above, saying two hundred and fifty elderly men and women were selected in each state of the federation.

"A total of One billion, nine hundred million naira, will be disbursed across the nation.

The RHI coordinators in the 36 states of the federation, the FCT and Defense and Police Officers' Wives Association (DEPOWA) have received fifty million naira (N50,000,000) each, out of which N200,000 will be distributed to each beneficiary", she added. 

Senator Tinubu explained that the Governing Board of the RHI had increased the grant from one hundred thousand naira disbursed last year, to two hundred thousand naira this year, in order to provide further support to the senior citizens during the festive season.

She congratulated all senior citizens who have been selected as beneficiaries, urging them to prioritise their health by staying hydrated, engage in exercise and observe adequate rest, while spending quality time with families and loved ones.

In her address, Mrs. Abiodun said the gesture was in recognition of the contributions of the aged to their various families and the society, hence the need for government to give back to them at their old age.

"Our elderly have raised generations, supported our communities, and enriched the cultural fabric of our state. Now, it is our turn to stand by them, ensuring their well-being and security in their golden years. This initiative is not just about financial aid, it is about fostering a sense of community, love, and responsibility.

 “We will continue to support and expand programmes under the RHI. Beyond the elderly care scheme, we are committed to enhancing youth and women programmes and other initiatives that uplift and empower our people", she said.

In her remark, Wife of the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Dr. Yinka Elemide, appreciated the Wife of the President for the good initiative and support, describing her gesture as a beacon of hope for the elderly in the State and Nigeria at large.

Highlights of the event were free medical checkups, giving of medications, distribution of food items and transport fare to the aged.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Abigail Afuape appreciated the First Lady for her continued show of love to the vulnerable and the underprivileged in the state, saying the grant and the food items received came to time, particularly during this festive season,