Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, has enjoined widows and children of the fallen heroes of the Armed Forces to keep strong while acknowledging their strength, resilience and the profound sacrifices they bear.
She also extended financial lifeline to 1,709 widows and orphans under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), of the current government.
A total sum of N427.75m, equating to N250,000 for each beneficiary, was presented to the late heroes’ widows and children, as part of the RHI’s social investment programme, aimed at uplifting vulnerable groups in the country.
She acknowledged the challenging journey faced by these families, especially the wives of gallant soldiers. She emphasized that the sacrifices made by their fallen loved ones, who paid the ultimate price in defending the country, demand the provision of comprehensive welfare.
The financial support, a tangible expression of care and solidarity, aims to empower the widows, she said, highlights its potential to serve as capital for existing or new businesses, enabling them to care for their families.
Addressing the widows, she said: “You have shown extraordinary courage in the face of adversity, and we are here to offer a helping hand as you chart a new path forward.”
Expressing hope that his intervention would provide substantial relief, Senator Tinubu called on other stakeholders to join hands in supporting the dependents of fallen soldiers, telling the widows and orphans not to see themselves as victims but survivors.
In a goodwill message, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, conveyed gratitude for the thought gesture, underscoring the priority placed on the welfare of widows by Senator Tinubu and the RHI.
The CDS, represented by Major-General Danladi Salisu, noted that the financial support brings renewed hope to the families of fallen heroes and bolsters the morale of serving members of the Armed Forces.
Also, President of the Defence and Police Wives Association, Oghogho Musa, who received the donation on behalf of the beneficiaries, applauded the intervention, deeming it a much-needed relief for the families connected to the Nigeria Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), the Nigerian Navy Officers Wives Association (NOWA), the Defence Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), the Navy Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) and the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).
