The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) under the Social Investment Programme, on Wednesday, donated food items to 600 vulnerable persons in Imo as part of its ongoing national food outreach scheme.
Speaking at the event in Owerri, the First Lady and National Chairman of RHI, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, expressed delight at the continued expansion of the RHI Social Investment Programme.
Tinubu, represented by Hajiya Nana Shettima, said the food outreach scheme, launched in March 2024, aimed to ease hardship for persons with disabilities and their families.
The first lady emphasised that the programme was specifically aimed at supporting persons with disabilities, the elderly, widows, orphans, and other disadvantaged groups across the country.
She explained that the programme was made possible through the monthly contributions of two key donors the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative and another donor, who preferred anonymity.
The First Lady disclosed that the food items had been distributed successfully to 20 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with Imo as the 21st beneficiary.
She said Taraba would be the next beneficiary of the initiative.
She added that more empowerment programmes would be rolled out later in the year, including “the launch of Environment Trust and Societies in schools to encourage cleanliness and tree planting.”
“On Dec 3, grants of ₦200,000 each for 250 persons with disabilities would be initiated in all the states and the FCT, as part of our commitment to promote inclusive growth and social protection for all.
“Furthermore, on Dec. 16, our elderly support scheme will provide a grant of N200, 000 to 250 senior citizens in each state of the federation and the FCT,” she added
Receiving the items, wife of Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Mrs Chioma Uzodinma, commended Tinubu for her consistent support to Imo people.
Uzodinma described food as “hope, dignity, and a lifeline for struggling families,” emphasising that the outreach brought relief, confidence, and strength to community solidarity.
“The RHI was birthed from genuine empathy and concerns for the welfare of everyday Nigerian, especially those facing difficult circumstances.
“It recognises that true development is measured not by the heights of our towers but by how we lift our most vulnerable citizens.
“When we ensure that families have access to nutritious food, we are not just feeding stomachs, we are restoring hope, strengthening communities and reaffirming our shared humanities.
“This is not charity in a condescending sense. It is a gesture and reminder that you are not alone in your journey.
“We see your strength, recognise your challenges and we remain committed to creating more opportunities for your empowerment and inclusion.”
Uzodinma commended the first lady for her passion for the vulnerable as well as praised President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s support towards the welfare of the people.
She also thanked the donors, partners, and all those who made the programme possible.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the donated items included groundnut oil, sugar, pasta, noodles, semovita and cash, among others.
A 55-year-old widow and beneficiary, Mrs Fidelia Madumere, who sells groundnut at Ihite Uboma Local Government Area of the state, expressed joy over the gesture and lauded the state governor, his wife as well as Tinubu for remembering her.
