By Prosper Mene
In a determined move to empower women and stimulate local economies, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has provided N50,000 recapitalization grants to 1,000 women petty traders in Anambra State.
The initiative, flagged off by Anambra State First Lady, Dr. Nonye Soludo, aims to bolster small-scale businesses and promote financial independence among women.
The distribution ceremony took place at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, where Dr. Nonye Soludo, representing Senator Tinubu, handed out the grants to beneficiaries, including petty traders, vulnerable women, and persons with disabilities from various communities across the state. The event, marked by enthusiasm, also featured cooking and dancing competitions organized by PZ Wilmar, makers of Mamador oil, adding a festive touch to the occasion.
Senator Tinubu emphasized the critical role of women petty traders, describing them as the “backbone of Nigeria’s local economy.” She highlighted that the N1.85 billion nationwide program, targeting 37,000 women across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is designed to help traders overcome business challenges, expand their enterprises, and contribute to job creation. “Empowering women economically is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one. When women thrive, their families and communities prosper,” she stated.
Dr. Nonye Soludo urged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds diligently to grow their businesses and support their families. “Women are the pillars of the family, bearing the greater brunt of financial pressure. This empowerment is to help you do better,” she said, reinforcing the state’s commitment to supporting women through initiatives like the Anambra Small Business Agency (ASBA).
Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the timely intervention. Mrs. Nnaemeka Nwachukwu from Idemili South, one of the recipients, noted, “This money is coming at a time when we need it the most. It will surely go a long way to boost our trades and support our families.”
The event, which drew a large crowd of women eager to benefit, showed the initiative’s impact and the pressing need for such support amid economic challenges.
Senator Tinubu and Dr. Soludo also called on the beneficiaries to pray for the success of both federal and state governments as they work to improve the lives of Nigerians.
