The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the Delta State Government, has empowered 1,000 women traders in Delta State with financial grants to strengthen and expand their businesses.
The programme, held in Asaba, forms part of the nationwide women’s empowerment initiative championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to provide sustainable economic support for grassroots women and boost small-scale enterprises.
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu emphasized that the scheme is a grant and not a loan, designed to capitalize existing businesses and enhance household incomes.
“It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” she declared.
The First Lady also commended the Tony Elumelu Foundation for its ₦1 billion donation to the programme, which will benefit 18,500 women nationwide. Under the initiative, 500 women from each state, including the FCT, are receiving ₦50,000 each.
Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, applauded the inclusivity of this year’s edition.
She disclosed that the state government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, sponsored the recapitalization of an additional 500 women traders, raising the total number of beneficiaries in Delta to 1,000.
According to her, the women were carefully drawn from diverse religious, professional, and community groups.
“Among the beneficiaries are Christian and Muslim women groups, wives of military and paramilitary personnel, journalists, as well as women from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa communities. This inclusivity reflects the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Initiative,” Deaconess Oborevwori noted.
She urged the beneficiaries to deploy the funds wisely, support their families, and contribute to community growth, while also calling for prayers and support for both Governor Oborevwori and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as they expand opportunities for women.
The highlight of the occasion was the symbolic presentation of ₦50,000 to selected traders, witnessed by dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and women’s organizations.
Beneficiaries expressed joy and appreciation for the initiative, describing the support as timely and impactful in helping them sustain and expand their businesses.
