By Bilkisu Abdullahi-Yahuza
In a significant move to promote economic sustainability among women, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 women across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
The initiative was organised in collaboration with the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Speaking at the distribution of empowerment items to the women at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the importance of supporting women in nation-building.
The first lady who was represented by the wife of Kogi State Governor and the State Coordinator Renewed Hope Initiative, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, emphasised that the present administration was committed to women’s economic empowerment.
She highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises inclusivity, economic growth and sustainable development.
According to her, the items distributed were carefully selected to equip women with the necessary tools to build and sustain successful businesses.
She revealed that a total of 18,500 women across the six geopolitical zones will benefit from the empowerment program, starting with the North Central.
Senator Tinubu further noted that empowering women was central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG-5, which focuses on gender equality, and SDG-8, which promotes decent work and economic growth.
She urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the resources provided, describing them as a foundation for a better life for themselves and their families. “I hope and pray that what you receive today will prosper in your hands,” she said, encouraging the women to take full advantage of the opportunity to improve their financial independence.
The first lady expressed gratitude to Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, for facilitating the initiative.
While delivering her speech, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the SSA to the President on SDGs, who was represented by the SSA to the governor on SDGs Hon. Usman Musa, highlighted the timeliness of the initiative.
He commended Senator Tinubu’s dedication to unlocking the potential of women and fostering their economic independence.
Some of the beeneficiaries Kaka Abubakar from Lokoja, Ramatu Ahmed from Okene and Esther Salifu from Olamabaro appreciated them for the gesture.
Items distributed in this phase include; deep freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines, all aimed at helping women start or expand their businesses.
The Director General Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation Lokoja Princess Nana Hauwa Yussuff and the Director General Pension Board Hajiya Mariam Abedo were at the flag off ceremony.
