ABUJA — Senior citizens gathered at the Centre for Arts and Culture in Garki, Abuja, on Tuesday for the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme, an event hailed as both a gesture of gratitude and a call to action to protect and honour Nigeria’s ageing population.
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the initiative—spearheaded by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu—for ensuring that the elderly “feel valued, protected, and supported by society.”
Under the theme “Finding Joy in Old Age,” Dr. Mahmoud emphasised that ageing should be “a season of dignity, fulfilment, and peace, rather than one marked by neglect, loneliness, or hardship.”
“True joy in old age comes from feeling seen, heard, and appreciated,” she stated, adding that the programme reflects the First Lady’s “compassionate vision” to reach vulnerable groups across the nation.
Dr. Mahmoud reiterated that the welfare of the elderly remains a priority for the FCT Administration, with efforts channeled through the Women Affairs Secretariat to improve healthcare access, social protection, and inclusion for older residents.
Also speaking, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, described the elderly as “custodians of culture, wisdom, and collective memory.”
She revealed that Senator Tinubu had directed all state chapters of the RHI to “recognize, celebrate, and bring joy to the elderly,” regardless of religion, tribe, or gender.
“This scheme goes beyond material support,” Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi said. “It is about affirmation and validation—telling our elders that they matter, that they are seen, celebrated, valued, and respected.”
The Minister commended the Women Affairs Secretariat for its consistency and thanked partners for their support, while encouraging beneficiaries to stay hopeful and engaged.
The event was framed not merely as a social intervention, but as a broader appeal to families, communities, and institutions to uphold the dignity of older Nigerians, learn from their wisdom, and ensure “no one is left behind.”
