In a significant move to foster inclusive economic growth, Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has disbursed substantial business grants to thousands of citizens living with disabilities across the nation.
N200,000 Grant for Each Beneficiary
A total of 9,500 persons with disabilities (PWDs) nationwide have each received a financial grant of N200,000. The funds are specifically designed to strengthen their existing small businesses or help launch new ventures, providing a crucial boost to their livelihoods and economic independence.
The official launch ceremony was held at the Mambilla Barracks in Abuja on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. This date was strategically chosen to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. During the Abuja event, 250 physically challenged veterans from the military and police forces were among the first to receive their grants.
Part of a Broader Empowerment Agenda
According to a statement released by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady emphasized that the intervention underscores the critical importance of inclusion in Nigeria's national development. She stated that the country progresses more effectively when every citizen is given a fair opportunity to contribute.
Mrs. Tinubu clarified that this programme is a key component of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a pet project established in 2023 that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. The agenda focuses on achieving inclusive growth and shared prosperity for all Nigerians.
"To all our beneficiaries, I encourage you to make good use of this opportunity," the First Lady advised. "Let it be a seed that grows into something greater; a business that sustains you and your family."
A Recurring Commitment to PWDs
In a landmark announcement, Senator Tinubu declared that the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities will now be held annually every December 3. This institutionalizes the support and ensures long-term, sustained assistance for the PWD community.
The statement further revealed the impressive scale of the Renewed Hope Initiative's impact. Since its inception in 2023, the RHI has provided direct financial grants to over 100,000 beneficiaries, including women petty traders, small business owners, and persons with disabilities.
The disbursement event was not limited to Abuja. The empowerment scheme was launched simultaneously across all 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, and within associations for wives of military personnel, ensuring nationwide reach.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, whose representative attended the event, praised the initiative. He described it as a profound demonstration of compassion and a vital contribution to social welfare in the country.
This grant programme adds to the First Lady's series of empowerment efforts. Legit.ng had previously reported that hundreds of Nigerian women received N50,000 grants through a collaboration between the First Lady's office and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, under the RHI's Women Economic Empowerment Programme.
