Federal government has provided N50 million re-capitation grant for 1,000 petty women traders in Abia State through its Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) economic empowerment programme.
At the event in Umuahia, the state capital, the wife of the president and chairman of the programme, Sen Oluremi Tinubu said the grant is aimed at encouraging and stimulating women economic growth.
Represented by the wife of the chief of staff to the president, Salamatu Gbajabiamila, the first lady said women have central roles to play in the overall development of every society.
“The grants are intended to help our women overcome business challenges, expand their enterprises, create jobs and contribute more robustly to our national economy.
“You are the heart of our local economy; the foundation of our communities and the unsung heroines of our nation. Today, we celebrate your hard work and perseverance,” she said.
Mrs Tinubu called for collaborative efforts by all to ensure that the country’s women are well-equipped to succeed and small businesses flourish as engines of national prosperity.
In her address, the wife of the governor, Priscilla Otti, urged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunity with determination, emphasizing that the grant could unlock new pathways for their economic aspirations.
“Today’s event showcases our unwavering commitment to uplifting women, particularly those who are the backbone of our families and engaged in micro and small-scale enterprises.
“I urge you to seize this opportunity with determination and purpose. This is the moment to bring your economic aspirations to life, open doors to success and unlock new avenues of opportunities,” she noted.
She thanked the first lady, whom she described as a mother and beacon of hope for the women, and her husband, Gov Alex Otti, for his visionary leadership, saying the narrative of the state has changed positively under him.
In his remarks, Gov Otti expressed appreciation for the grant which he said would go a long way to better the lives of the beneficiaries in particular and the larger society in general.
Represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, he stated that his administration has a similar programme and had disbursed N1 billion zero-interest loans to women entrepreneurs.
Similarly, the commissioner for poverty alleviation and social protection, Blessing Felix, appreciated the grant and urged the beneficiaries to maximise its benefits.
