The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has charged elderly Nigerians to remain healthy, active and joyful, particularly during the yuletide season, as she hosted the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady said the programme has become a tradition of the Renewed Hope Initiative since the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aimed at celebrating Nigerians—especially veterans—whose years of service contributed to nation-building and collective progress.
“As we approach the festive season, it is crucial to prioritise our elderly citizens. They walked difficult paths so that younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. It is our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure they spend their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity,” she said.
Senator Tinubu encouraged senior citizens to find joy and purpose in old age, stressing that graceful ageing goes beyond longevity to include love, support, respect and meaningful engagement.
“I advise our senior citizens to do all that is possible to find joy in old age. Find purpose in community, compassion and care. Continue to nurture both your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful activities. Those who are able should remain active in charitable work, as helping others brings fulfilment and joy,” she added.
The First Lady disclosed that the scheme is currently supporting 250 vulnerable veterans aged 65 years and above, with each beneficiary receiving ₦200,000, bringing the total intervention to about ₦1 billion nationwide. In addition to the cash support, food items were distributed to beneficiaries to ease their needs during the festive period.
She explained that the initiative is designed to ensure that veterans live their later years with dignity, purpose and a strong sense of belonging.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Director of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Adepegba, praised the RHI for its targeted social investment programmes, particularly those supporting defence and police officer veterans.
He said the initiative reflects the nation’s appreciation for the selfless service and sacrifices of veterans, adding that such programmes boost morale within the Armed Forces and reassure serving personnel that their contributions will never be forgotten.
“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, especially for senior citizens and veterans, reinforces confidence within the Services,” he said.
Rear Admiral Adepegba also commended the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), led by its President, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, for its continued partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in advancing people-centred welfare programmes.
He noted that the true strength of a nation lies not only in its defence capabilities, but also in its compassion and care for those who served it faithfully, adding that the Armed Forces remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote welfare, unity and national cohesion.
The event featured the symbolic presentation of ₦200,000 to beneficiaries by the First Lady, alongside free medical screenings. Beneficiaries also received various food items to support them during the festive season.
