Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, announced that 37,000 women across the country would benefit from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) recapitalisation grant. This initiative aims to support women in petty trading and promote economic empowerment.
The announcement was made on August 15, 2024, in Makurdi during a symbolic presentation of food items to internally displaced persons (IDPs), persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. The distribution was part of the “Food Outreach Scheme,” a social investment program under the RHI.
Represented by Mrs. Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Tinubu revealed that 1,000 women from each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would receive a ₦50,000 grant to support their businesses. This program is set to launch on August 22, 2024, simultaneously across the country.
The First Lady emphasized that the initiative aims to support the underprivileged and contribute to the country’s food security and sufficiency goals. She encouraged beneficiaries to make the most of the support provided.
Governor Hyacient Alia of Benue State, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, commended the First Lady for her support and pledged to augment the distribution to the most vulnerable in the state. Mrs. Scholastica Sor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, highlighted that Benue State has received significant support from the RHI and anticipated further assistance, including an agriculture program benefiting over 200 women.
The event’s high point was the symbolic presentation of food items to the governor by the First Lady, reflecting the RHI’s commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged.