The wife of the President, senator Oluremi Tinubu, Tuesday, distributed the sum of N1.9bn to 900 elderly persons for upkeep.
Distribution of the fund was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) of the Presidency.
The program took place at the women Development Center Abakaliki and 25 elderly persons from the state benefited.
Representing Mrs.Tinubu , wife of Ebonyi state Governor, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, explained that each state of the federation has 25 persons benefiting from the program.
She said each of them would receive 200 thousand naira. She also gave a bag of 25kg rice to the beneficiaries.
Reading the address of the President’s wife, Mrs. Nwifuru said, “I am delighted to join you all today at the 2nd edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme(RHIESS) with the theme: TOTAL WELLNESS:Happy, Healthy and Prosperous Lifestyle.
“This program is designed to support the welfare of our elderly citizens annually. Two Hundred and Fifty(250) 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) will be benefiting from this scheme.
The Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has decided to increase the grant from N100,000 toN200,000 this year to provide further support to our elderly citizens during this festive season.
“A total of One Billion,Nine Hundred Million Naira(N1,900,000,000) will be disbursed across the nation.The RHI Coordinators in the 36 States of the federation,the FCT and DEPOWA have received Fifty million Naira (N50,000,000) each, out of whichN200,000 will be distributed today to each beneficiary. In addition to this, free medical check-up and other sundry items will be provided.
“I commend all our State First Ladies/RHI State coordinators and partners for their efforts in making this day a reality.
“I congratulate all our senior citizens who have been selected as beneficiaries. I urge you to remember to prioritise your health even as we all enjoy and celebrate in the festive season. Eat well, stay hydrated, do little exercise-like walking and getting adequate rest. Spend quality time with loved ones,and do what you enjoy and makes you happy”.