As part of the nationwide Renewed Hope Initiative, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday, empowered Persons With Disabilities in Ekiti, Nasarawa, and Abia states with business recapitalisation grants aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting economic independence, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons With Disabilities.
Each state received N50 million, distributed to 250 beneficiaries, with each individual receiving N200,000.
Launched simultaneously across the 36 states and the FCT, the programme is expected to benefit 9,500 PWDs nationwide.
In Abia State, the grants were handed over under the supervision of the wife of Governor Alex Otti, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti.
She said, “This grant is not just financial support; it is an investment in dignity, independence, and economic inclusion. We are committed to ensuring PWDs participate fully in education, health, and economic activities.”
Chairman of the Abia State Disabilities Commission, David Anyaele, thanked Mrs Tinubu for empowering 250 Abians, adding, “This initiative recognises the resilience and enterprise of PWDs and ensures they continue to prosper.”
In Ekiti State, the grants were presented at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti, with Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, wife of the state governor.
She said, “Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. This programme ensures that no Nigerian is left behind.”
She also noted, “Over the past two years, the RHI has supported over 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners, including PWDs, with direct financial grants to grow their businesses.”
In Nasarawa State, First Lady, Silifat Abdullahi-Sule, distributed the grants in Lafia, urging beneficiaries to invest wisely in their businesses.
Nasarawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hauwa Jugbo, added, “These funds will help small business owners recapitalise and strengthen their means of livelihood, improving social and economic inclusion.”
The initiative reflects a continued commitment by the federal and state governments to inclusive development, economic empowerment, and sustainable social support, ensuring that PWDs are equipped to thrive and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s growth.
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