The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Shade Tinubu has provided financial support of ₦200,000 each to 9,500 persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the country, in a nationwide initiative launched to mark World Disability Day.
The flag-off ceremony took place at Mambilla Barracks, Abuja, where 250 physically challenged military and police veterans received their grants. The programme was simultaneously rolled out across all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and through the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
Speaking at the event, Senator Tinubu highlighted the importance of an inclusive society where every individual has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.
“Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute. This initiative is a step toward ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, especially those whose needs are often overlooked,” she said.
The disbursement aligns with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), part of the broader Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity. Since its launch in 2023, the RHI’s business recapitalization scheme has supported over 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners, including persons with disabilities, with direct financial grants.
Senator Tinubu announced that the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities will now be an annual event held every December 3, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. She encouraged beneficiaries to utilise the grants effectively, describing the support as a seed for sustainable business growth.
Represented at the event by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the initiative was praised as “compassion in action,” reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to social investment and empowerment for marginalized communities.
The programme also complements previous RHI interventions, including medical outreach, food distribution, and support schemes across various sectors, reinforcing the government’s mission to enhance the well-being of families nationwide.