The First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Remi Tinubu has approved N50 million in re-capitation grants to support 1,000 small-scale women traders in Abia State through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) economic empowerment program.
Sen. Remi Tinubu who was represented by the wife of the Chief of Staff to the president, Salamatu Gbajabiamila made the announcement during an event in Umuahia, the state capital. She stated that women play a crucial role in the overall development of every society and that the grant is designed to encourage and stimulate economic growth among women.
She also mentioned that grants are designed to help women overcome business challenges, grow their enterprises, create jobs, and contribute more significantly to the nation's economy.
“You are the heart of our local economies, the foundation of our communities, and the unsung heroines of our nation. Today, we honour and celebrate your hard work and perseverance,” she stated.
Wife of the President and Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) urged everyone to work together to ensure that the country’s women are fully equipped to succeed and that small businesses thrive as drivers of national prosperity.
The Abia State Governor's wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti who was also present during the occasion, encouraged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity with determination, highlighting that the grant could open new pathways for their economic goals. She mentioned that the event reflects the steadfast commitment to empower women, especially those who are the backbone of their families and involved in micro and small-scale enterprises.
“I urge you to embrace this chance with resolve and intention. This is your moment to realize your economic aspirations, open doors to success, and explore new opportunities,” she remarked.
She expressed gratitude to the First Lady, whom she hailed as a mother and beacon of hope for women, as well as to her husband, Governor Alex Otti, for his visionary leadership. She noted that the state’s narrative has positively transformed under his guidance.
Gov. Alex Otti who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu mentioned that his administration has a similar program and has distributed N1 billion in zero-interest loans to women entrepreneurs.
He also expressed gratitude for the grant, stating that it would significantly improve the lives of the beneficiaries and positively impact the larger community.
On Thursday, Senator Oluremi Tinubu launched the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme by distributing N50,000 business recapitalization grants to 37,000 female small-scale traders across the country.
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The RHI Economic Empowerment event for 1,000 women petty traders in each state was conducted simultaneously in all 36 state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory, with each beneficiary receiving N50,000 as part of the business recapitalization grant.
