Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, today announced a ₦100 million business recapitalization grant to support 2,000 women petty traders in Jigawa State as part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI)’s ongoing women’s economic empowerment programme.
The grant, which provides ₦50,000 to each beneficiary, was disbursed during the First Lady’s one-day official visit to the state. The announcement was made at the palace of the Emir of Hadejia, His Royal Highness Alhaji Adamu Abubakar Maje.
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu reiterated her commitment to the growth of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), describing the sector as the foundation for sustainable national development.
“My commitment to the promotion of small and medium scale businesses remains strong. This sub-sector is the bedrock of sustainable development in our country,” the First Lady stated. “Through the Renewed Hope Initiative, we continue to provide targeted support to women at the grassroots level, enabling them to expand their businesses, improve household incomes, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy.”
This latest intervention in Jigawa builds on similar empowerment programmes rolled out in other states, reflecting the Office of the First Lady’s dedication to inclusive economic growth and women’s financial independence.
The beneficiaries, primarily women engaged in petty trading, will utilize the funds to recapitalize and grow their enterprises, fostering resilience in local economies.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a seasoned politician, former Senator representing Lagos Central, and passionate advocate for women and youth development, leads the Renewed Hope Initiative, which focuses on education, health, skills acquisition, and economic empowerment across Nigeria.