…Programme to extend to people with special needs
A total of 1,000 women traders in Delta State have been empowered in the second edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative in collaboration with Tony Elumelu Foundation.
The empowerment programme seeks to bolster small-scale businesses and offer sustainable economic support to women at the grassroots level.
Speaking at the event held in Asaba, Oluremi Tinubu, wife of President Bola Tinubu, explained that the financial assistance provided through the programme is a grant, not a loan, aimed at revitalising existing businesses.
The First Lady who was represented by Tobore Oborevwori, wife of Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State governor, noted the critical role of women empowerment in facilitating growth within families and communities.
“It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” the First Lady stated.
She lauded Tony Elumelu Foundation for its generous commitment of ₦1billion to this cause, which will directly benefit 18,500 women across Nigeria.
Each state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will see 500 beneficiaries receive ₦50,000 each to aid in their enterprise development.
On her part, Tobore Oborevwori, represented by Catherine Onyeme, wife of the Deputy Governor of Delta State, reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to empowering women.
She described the women empowerment as a key driver of economic growth in the state.
Oborevwori noted the inclusiveness of this year’s initiative, and her husband’s administration’s support, which has enabled the recapitalization of an additional 500 women traders.
The initiative has successfully raised the total number of beneficiaries in Delta State to 1,000. “Among the 1,000 recipients are Christian and Muslim women groups, wives of military and paramilitary personnel, journalists, and women from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa communities.”
“This inclusivity reflects the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Initiative,” she added.
She urged the women to make prudent use of the grants, encourage their families, and contribute to the development of their communities.
Also, she called for ongoing prayers and support for her husband and the president as they work towards creating more opportunities for women.
Evelyn Amirah, Special Assistant on Women Empowerment to Governor Oborevwori, said that the initiative was not just about financial support but also about long-term investment in families and communities, thereby reinforcing the government’s commitment to grassroots economic resilience.
