First Lady Empowers 250 PWDs in Ekiti With N50 Million Grant, Launches Annual Initiative
The First Lady of Nigeria and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti State with a total grant of ₦50 million, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive development and economic self-reliance for all citizens.
Each beneficiary received ₦200,000 in cash during the empowerment ceremony held at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti. The event marked the official launch of the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for PWDs in the state, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Inclusion at the Centre of National Development
Represented at the event by the Wife of the Ekiti State Governor and RHI State Coordinator, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Senator Tinubu stressed that inclusion and equal opportunity remain core priorities of the Renewed Hope Initiative. She noted that the programme is part of a broader national vision to ensure that no segment of society is left behind in Nigeria’s social and economic transformation.
Akahi News gathered that the empowerment programme was conducted simultaneously in all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, with 250 PWDs in each state benefiting from the business recapitalisation grant.
According to the First Lady, the gesture is aimed at strengthening existing small businesses operated by PWDs, enhancing their livelihoods and enabling them to achieve greater independence and confidence in their productive capacities.
Aligned With President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
While speaking on behalf of the First Lady, Dr Oyebanji explained that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises inclusive growth, shared prosperity and support for vulnerable groups across the nation.
She revealed that, in the last two years alone, the Renewed Hope Initiative has supported more than 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners across Nigeria. The initiative has also made significant contributions to agriculture, health, education and emergency relief for disaster victims and internally displaced persons.
Akahi News learnt that this latest phase of empowerment underscores the administration’s focus on targeted interventions that directly impact lives at the grassroots level.
Programme to Become Annual Event
Expressing deep appreciation to Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, and his wife for their commitment and collaboration, the First Lady assured that the empowerment programme for PWDs would become an annual event to mark their international day.
Quoting renowned disability rights advocate Helen Keller, she said: “Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”
She emphasised that a truly inclusive society is built when everyone is given the opportunity and support to contribute their unique gifts to national progress.
Dignitaries Grace the Occasion
The event drew the presence of top government functionaries, including the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; the Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi; the Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Bimpe Aderiye; and the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, among others.
The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and renewed hope, as beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the opportunity to rebuild and grow their businesses.
A Step Towards a More Inclusive Nigeria
The Renewed Hope Initiative’s intervention in Ekiti stands as another strong signal of the administration’s commitment to lifting vulnerable Nigerians and creating a more balanced, inclusive and resilient economy.
As Akahi News gathered at the event, many of the beneficiaries described the grant as “life-changing,” promising to invest it wisely to improve their standard of living and contribute positively to their communities.
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