By Sylvia Kodilichukwu, Enugu
The milk of human kindness flowed freely from First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as she supported 250 elderly persons in Enugu State with the sum of N50 million.
The gesture was in continuation of the activities of her pet project, The Renewed Hope Initiative’s Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS).
The money inflow to the elders took place at the Post Primary School Management Board (PPSMB) Hall, Independence Layout, Enugu, South-East Nigeria.
The programme, themed ‘Total Wellness: Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous Lifestyle’, sought to promote the well-being and dignity of elderly citizens aged 65 and above.
In her remarks, Mrs Tinubu, who was represented by Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah, wife of Enugu State Governor, emphasized the importance of prioritizing health, urging the elderly to “eat well, stay hydrated, do little exercise, and spend quality time with loved ones.”
She also encouraged them to “take care of their mental health, engage in activities that bring them joy, and stay connected with family and friends.”
Senator Tinubu noted: “As we age, our needs change, but our desire for dignity, respect, and compassion remains constant. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our elderly citizens live their golden years with joy, comfort, and fulfillment.”
A total of 250 elderly persons from across the state benefited from the initiative, receiving N200,000 each.
Mrs Mbah also announced that the government of Enugu state, under Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, would support the programme in the state with an additional N50 million to underscore the value and significance of the RHIESS programme by providing additional support to expand the number of beneficiaries.
Mrs Mbah, who also distributed bags of rice to the beneficiaries, expressed appreciation to Senator Tinubu for initiating the RHIESS programme.
She also commended RHIESS coordinators and partners for their efforts in making the initiative a success.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the wife of the state Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Ossai; wife of the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Mrs. Chinyere Ugwu; state Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Ngozi Enih; the Deputy Minority Leader, Enugu State House of Assembly, represented by Hon. (Mrs) Chukwu Gladys; Chairperson of the state’s chapter of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Mrs. Rita Edeh; and wives of all LGA Chairmen.
The event featured comprehensive medical outreach, including free eye checks, vitals check and monitoring; free malaria testing; diagnosis of common ailments; and free drugs for treatment.
The beneficiaries were also treated to a day of entertainment, food, and celebration.
