First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative Empowers 250 Elderly Citizens in Ondo State
The Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), a social intervention programme of the Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 elderly citizens in Ondo State with financial assistance.
The programme, held at The Dome in Akure on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, witnessed the disbursement of ₦200,000 each to beneficiaries carefully selected from the 18 local government areas of the state.
Speaking at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by the Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, explained that the scheme was designed to support vulnerable elderly persons and enhance their overall welfare. She noted that the intervention targets citizens aged 65 years and above, adding that a total of ₦1.9 billion would be disbursed nationwide under the initiative.
According to her, elderly citizens deserve special attention and care, particularly as the festive season approaches, when their needs become more pressing.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Abosede Adelami, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. While appreciating the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and his wife for their commitment to the welfare of residents, she urged elderly citizens to prioritise their health and make adequate preparations for old age.
In her remarks, the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, congratulated the beneficiaries and lauded the gesture, noting that many elderly persons struggle to afford essential medications. She added that the beneficiaries were carefully selected across all 18 local government areas of the state.
Similarly, the Wife of the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Mrs. Abosede Fasua, advised the beneficiaries to utilise the funds judiciously, especially for their health-related needs.
The highlight of the event was the official presentation of the cash grants to the beneficiaries, bringing smiles and renewed hope to the elderly participants.