The first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has provided a lifeline to 1,000 women petty traders in Edo State through her “Renewed Hope Initiative” (RHI) in a powerful demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to grassroots economic empowerment.
A total of N50 million was distributed, with each beneficiary receiving a grant of ₦50,000.
Betsy Obaseki presented the cheques on behalf of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the empowerment ceremony, held at the Esan Central Council Secretariat in Irrua, Edo State.
While delivering the first lady’s message at the occasion, Betsy Obaseki emphasised that the initiative was part of a broader nationwide programme aimed at supporting 37,000 women across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The goal, according to her, is to provide financial backing to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those run by women, who are often the backbone of local economies.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, speaking through Betsy Obaseki highlighted the crucial role that women play in fostering economic growth and sustaining their communities.
She lauded the resilience and determination of the women traders, who have continued to support their families despite numerous challenges.
“We’re all aware of the challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), especially the petty traders, who form the backbone of our local economies.
“These challenges have not deterred the strength of our women. I salute you all and celebrate your courage and resilience that keep you going, to put food on the table of your families.
“Today, through the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme, we’re providing 1,000 pre-selected women petty traders per state with a grant of N50,000 each to recapitalize and grow their businesses.
“A total of One Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N1,850,0000,000.00) will be disbursed to 37,000 women petty traders across the nation.
“The grants provided today is to assist our women petty traders in overcoming some of their business challenges, expand their businesses, create more jobs, and contribute more robustly to our economy.”
The event was marked by a wave of gratitude from the beneficiaries, many of whom shared their stories of hardship and hope.
Mrs. Josephine Orhibhabor, one of the recipients, described the grant as a divine intervention, stating, “This grant is God’s intervention in my life. My six children and I have been struggling to survive.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Irabor Augusta, expressed her joy, saying, “May God bless the First Lady of Nigeria. I’m glad to be one of the petty traders selected. This money will go a long way in helping my tomato business.”
Mrs. Anna Isibor shared her experience, recalling how others doubted the possibility of receiving the grant, but now, she sees it as a blessing. “When they asked people to write their names, some were laughing, saying nothing would come out of it. But today, God has sent the first lady to help me through this hardship.”
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