The First Lady of Nigeria and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday, December 3, gave financial support worth N50 million to persons with disabilities in Akwa Ibom State.
She launched the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for people with special needs as part of the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Speaking at the event held in the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Uyo, the First Lady said that 250 persons with disabilities in each state and the Federal Capital Territory have received N200,000 each to help grow or revive their small businesses.
Her message was delivered by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Etukudo. Senator Tinubu said the programme aims to support Nigerians with disabilities and make sure they are included in national development.
She explained that each state and the FCT received N50 million to give out to selected beneficiaries. In total, 9,500 persons with disabilities across Nigeria will benefit.
Senator Tinubu also announced that the national empowerment programme for persons with disabilities, valued at N1.9 billion, will now take place every year on December 3.
She encouraged all beneficiaries to use the grant wisely so their businesses can grow and support their families.
The First Lady thanked Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and the First Lady Designate, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, for supporting the event.
The State RHI Focal Person, Mrs. Emem Orok, praised Senator Tinubu for the positive impact of RHI programmes in Akwa Ibom.
Goodwill messages came from the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga; the Chairman of Ibeno Local Government Council, Hon. Glory Effiong; and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, Mrs. Nnene Bassey. They all thanked the First Lady for her commitment to inclusiveness and support for vulnerable groups.
The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of the grants to representatives of the six clusters of persons with disabilities. Many beneficiaries also received credit alerts of N200,000 during the event, which featured cultural performances by the Council for Arts and Culture.
