In a heartwarming initiative aimed at improving the lives of elderly Nigerians, 250 senior citizens from Kogi State have received financial assistance and medical support through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme.
The program, launched by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, benefitted elderly individuals aged 65 and above from all 21 Local Government Areas in the state.
At the event hosted at the Government House in Lokoja, the First Lady was represented by Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, Wife of the Kogi State Governor.
Senator Tinubu disclosed that a total of ₦2 billion would be distributed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to support elderly citizens, with each Kogi beneficiary receiving ₦200,000.

In addition to the cash gifts, the program offer free medical check-ups and other vital support services to help senior citizens manage their health and well-being as they navigate old age and retirement. The First Lady highlighted the importance of regular health check-ups and urged the elderly to take advantage of the free services provided.
“This program is designed to uplift our elderly citizens and ensure they live with dignity and support as they age,” said Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emphasizing the government’s commitment to their welfare. The initiative, which will be conducted annually, is set to reach beneficiaries across Nigeria, including veterans from the Defence and Police Officers Wives’ Association (DEPOWA).
The scheme reflects the First Lady’s ongoing efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the elderly, particularly those facing financial and health challenges.

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assented to the bill that converts the Reference Hospital in Okene into the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Teaching Hospital.

The move aligns with the National Universities Commission’s approval for CUSTECH to offer full-time medical programs, including a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, as well as other health-related courses. The development is aimed at providing a solid foundation for the university’s medical programs.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, revealed that the signing was the culmination of months of collaborative efforts between CUSTECH, the State Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education.

“This is a significant step in ensuring that the medical programs approved for CUSTECH start on a solid and well-equipped foundation,” Fanwo stated. He also highlighted the world-class medical facilities now available at the hospital, some of which are making their debut in Africa.

Fanwo praised the Kogi State House of Assembly for passing the bill and reiterated the administration’s dedication to improving healthcare and education in the state.

With the bill now law, CUSTECH is set to commence its MBBS program, further solidifying Kogi State’s commitment to producing skilled healthcare professionals for the state and beyond.

The immediate past Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Enema Paul, has passed away.

He died early Saturday morning at a private hospital in Abuja after battling an undisclosed illness.

Hon. Paul, who represented Okura State Constituency in the 8th Assembly, had stepped down from his role as Deputy Speaker due to health reasons. He was succeeded by Hon. Comfort Ojoma Nwuchiola, the member representing Ibaji State Constituency.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late lawmaker.

Describing him as a humble, dedicated, and team-oriented public servant, the Speaker praised Hon. Paul’s commitment to fostering unity and supporting pro-people legislation that benefited the state.

Rt. Hon. Umar also noted that the late Enema Paul was a devout Christian who prioritized family values and had a deep commitment to his faith. He offered prayers for the bereaved family and the Assembly members, asking for strength during this difficult time.