By Abel Leo Zwànke, Lafia
Rising healthcare costs and limited access to essential services continue to affect elderly citizens across Nigeria. In response, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has intervened with a N50 million donation to support 250 senior citizens aged 65 and above in Nasarawa State.
The donation, distributed in Lafia on Tuesday as part of the second edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), aims to alleviate the economic challenges faced by elderly citizens amidst high inflation and restricted access to healthcare.
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu, represented by Nasarawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aisha Rufai Ibrahim, emphasized the initiative’s nationwide scope to support senior citizens.
“The Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has decided to increase the grant from N100,000 to N200,000 this year to provide additional support to our elderly citizens,” she said. “A total of N1.9 billion will be disbursed nationwide, benefiting elderly citizens selected from all 36 states, the FCT, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).”
She further advised the elderly to prioritize their health, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle: “Eat well, stay hydrated, engage in light exercise like walking, and get adequate rest. Spend quality time with loved ones and do what makes you happy.”
In response to the initiative, Nasarawa State Governor’s wife, Hajiya Silifat Abdullahi Sule, expressed gratitude for the donation and announced additional support for the beneficiaries.
“As part of the Renewed Hope Initiative, 250 wrappers will be distributed to the elderly to complement the cash donation,” she said, urging the beneficiaries to make responsible use of the support provided.
Dr. Gaza Gwamna, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Health, commended the intervention, highlighting the state’s healthcare efforts for the elderly.
“The Ministry of Health has provided free blood sugar and blood pressure checks for the elderly beneficiaries today, and those diagnosed with health challenges will be referred to health centres across the state,” he said.
Dr. Gwamna also stressed the importance of utilizing the state’s healthcare insurance package, noting, “Governor Abdullahi Sule has prioritized citizens’ health needs, ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare services.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr. Emmanuel Yonah, added that beneficiaries were selected from all 13 local government areas of the state.
“We hope this support will improve not only their sustenance but also the quality of life for their families,” he said.
