RHI gives N819m to 1,638 widows of fallen military, police personnel

The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), led by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, has disbursed N819 million to 1,638 widows of fallen military and police personnel across Nigeria.

Under the second edition of the RHI Social Investment Programme for Widows of Fallen Heroes, each beneficiary is receiving N500,000 to either start a business or recapitalise an existing one.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Mrs Tinubu said N657.5 million was allocated to 1,315 widows of fallen military personnel, while N161.5 million was earmarked for 323 widows of deceased police officers.

She said the beneficiaries were families of security personnel who died in the line of duty from 2023 to date, adding that the intervention was designed to help them rebuild their livelihoods and provide for their children.

“Today, we are providing financial support of N500,000 each to 1,638 widows of our fallen heroes, covering those who have lost their husbands in line of duty since the assumption of office of Mr President,” she said.

“This will enable you to recapitalise an existing business or start a business of your choice to care for your families.”

The First Lady said the money was already being transferred to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts, noting that the presentation at the event was symbolic.

“As I speak, your accounts are being credited by Zenith Bank. This is just a symbolic presentation today. God bless and prosper whatever business venture you all engage in,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu, who is the National Chairman of the RHI, said the programme was aimed not only at honouring the sacrifices of security personnel who died protecting the country but also at providing tangible support and opportunities for the families they left behind.