From Hussaini Yero, Funtua
The Office of the Zamfara First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal has led the distribution of N200,000 cash grant to each of the 250 elderly persons to to boost their businesses.
The Elderly Support Scheme was 3rd Edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Program aimed at providing financial support to 250 old age people to each of the 36 state and the FCT.
The beneficiary of the cash grant in the state were senior citizens to include men and women engaged in various small scale businesses across the 14 local government areas of Zamfara.
Distributing the cash grant in Gusau on Monday the Nigeria First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu said the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) with the Theme: “Finding Joy in Old Age”, was a social investment programme embodies the ongoing effort to ensure that elderly citizens live with dignity and joy, in a nation that genuinely cares for its own.
The First Lady , Zamfara State Governor Hurriya Dauda was represented by the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development… Dr. Aisha MZ. Anka. added that since the inception of this administration in 2023, the RHI has made it tradition to celebrate senior citizens every December, in recognition of their invaluable contributions to nation building.
“Through this scheme, we have continued to express our gratitude and care for the men and women who have laboured to build the Nigeria we are all proud to be part of today.
“The today’s event is to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
“These total of 9500 selected beneficiaries across the nation will receive a cash grant of N200,000 each, from the total sum of N1,900,000,000 approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state will receive the sum N50,000,000 including FCT and DEPOWA. She said
They had walked difficult paths so that the younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. therefore, it remained the moral duty of all and indeed the joy, to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity.
She advised the senior citizens to do everything possible to find joy in old age, let them find purpose in community, compassion and care. “Let us remember that 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 your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful engagement.” She added
For those of you that were active should continued to engaged in charitable work and in so doing, find joy in helping others. While thank you for your service, your sacrifices and your prayers for this great nation.
I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the State Coordinators of RHI and partners for your support with this scheme. As the year draws to a close, I wish each of you a peaceful and joyous holiday season and I pray that 2026 will bring renewed hope and greater accomplishments for all and our beloved nation.
In her remarks the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance, Hajiya Barira Ibrahim appreciated the Federal Government for bringing the initiative that give hope to the senior citizens of the country.
Ibrahim represented by the Director Science Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Zalihat Anka said caring of elderly people and needs of every society was critical.
“I therefore, welcome the Nigeria first lady, other dignitaries and beneficiaries to this grand occasion, hoping that the program will collectively renew our life”. She said
Also speaking the State PWomen Leader, Hajiya Rani Madawaki said the gesture was main for all citizens irrespective of his party affiliation.
Madawaki said the government was responsible for all and remained determined to treat residents of the state equally.
