In a bold stride toward economic inclusion and grassroots development, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 women in Nasarawa State with a ₦50,000 grant each under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). The disbursement, which took place at the Government House in Lafia, marks a significant milestone in the First Lady’s nationwide effort to uplift women entrepreneurs and petty traders across Nigeria.
Represented by Mrs. Silifat Abdullahi Sule, wife of the Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to supporting vulnerable women, especially those in rural communities. “This initiative is not a loan, but a seed of renewed hope,” she emphasized, “designed to help women recapitalize their businesses and contribute meaningfully to their households and communities.”
The ₦25 million total grant is part of a broader national scheme targeting 18,500 women across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT. The initiative is supported by the Tony Elumelu Foundation and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1: No Poverty.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Aisha Rufai Ibrahim, urged beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously, highlighting the importance of financial independence in combating economic hardship. Beneficiaries, including Amina Suleiman-Ibrahim and Hadiza Mohammed, expressed heartfelt gratitude and shared plans to invest in grain trading and other small-scale ventures.