First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has launched a ₦1.9 billion economic empowerment programme for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) under the Renewed Hope Initiative.
The programme was unveiled in Ilorin as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Under the scheme, 250 beneficiaries in each state and the FCT will receive ₦200,000 business grants, while every state and the Federal Capital Territory will also get ₦50 million for community support projects.
Represented by the wife of the Kwara State Governor, Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq, Senator Tinubu said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive development and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.
She noted that the Renewed Hope Initiative has supported over 100 small businesses in the last two years.
The First Lady expressed concern that persons with disabilities continue to face economic exclusion despite their contributions to national development.
She said the new ₦1.9 billion nationwide programme is designed to close long-standing inclusion gaps and promote equal opportunities.
She also announced that the empowerment programme will now be held annually on December 3rdto reinforce the call for a more inclusive society.
Kwara State Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Na’Allah Fatima, praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his support for PWDs and encouraged stakeholders to intensify their contributions.
Some beneficiaries, including Muhammad Adeoti, Rose Mary Bolatito, Ibrahim Yaya, and Idris Odumade, also expressed gratitude to the First Lady for the initiative.