By Victoria Okpanachi
In a bid to ensure inclusivity, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has empowered 250 persons with disabilities.
The programme, which was held in Lokoja was part of the activities to commemorate the 2025 World Disability Day, with the theme, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Society for Advancing Social Progress”.
She provided business grants of N200,000 each to 250 persons with disabilities across all Local Government Areas in the state to support their businesses.
The first lady, who was represented by the State Coordinator of RHI and wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, said the programme is aimed at ensuring an inclusive society that promotes unity and social progress.
She advocated for a progressive society that recognises the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, and urged stakeholders to support the initiative.
While reflecting on the achievements of the RHI over the last two years, Sen. Tinubu revealed that “over 100,000 small business owners, including IDPs, PWDs, orphans, and widows have benefited from RHI interventions spanning agriculture, social welfare, education, health, and economic empowerment.”
“In addition, the RHI monthly food outreach programme has supported vulnerable communities with relief materials and food items across 22 states and the FCT, particularly targeting IDPs, flood victims, and other groups in need” she further added.
She then urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely, saying, “Let this be a seed that grows into something greater, a business that can sustain your household and your family.”
In his goodwill message, the Executive Secretary, Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs, Hon. Yakubu Abdullhakeem, applauded the first lady for championing the cause of the community.
The event, which was held simultaneously across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, formed part of activities marking World Disability Day.
