First Lady Empowers 200 Women In Abia

Wife of Abia State governor, Priscilla Otti, has empowered 200 women in the state with N100,000 grant each under Ahiaoma Market Women Empowerment Programme through her Safe Tent Care Initiative.

At the event yesterday in Umuahia, the state capital, the first lady said the programme is dedicated to advancing the welfare, protection and economic stability of women and vulnerable groups.

”Beyond the grants, beneficiaries will also benefit from mentorship, business development services, and capacity-building programmes tailored to ensure long-term growth and financial independence

”When women earn, they reinvest significantly into their families and communities. This is not just social intervention; it is a smart economic strategy that drives growth,” she explained.

The initiative, she noted, aligns strongly with the vision of the governor, Alex Otti to promote inclusive growth, human capital development, and sustainable prosperity, particularly for women at the grassroots.

In a presentation on financial literacy, a management staff of Signature Bank Plc, Jonathan Obiloye, stressed the need for adoption of financial discipline, avoidance of fraudulent schemes, saving habit, and proper record keeping.

‎Similarly, Rose Ako of the Bank of Industry spoke on the importance of maintaining active bank accounts and credible financial records, noting that they are critical for accessing loans and scaling businesses

‎Ako further announced the bank’s rollout of a ₦4 billion matching fund scheme in partnership with the state government to support small and medium-scale enterprises

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‎In her remarks, the commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Ngozi Felix, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing poverty and creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable groups.

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‎Her Women Affairs Ministry counterpart, Maureen Aghukwa, said the imitative not only provides immediate financial relief but also creates a pathway for long-term economic stability and empowerment.

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‎She thanked the first lady for the gesture and urged beneficiaries of the grant to take full advantage of the opportunity to grow their businesses and improve their standard of living.

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‎The event featured the symbolic presentation of grant cheques and impactful financial education sessions, equipping beneficiaries with practical knowledge on savings, investment, budgeting, and business growth.