Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has revealed that the federal government plans to distribute grants of N200,000 each to 250 persons with disabilities across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The initiative is part of the broader Renewed Hope Initiative, which aims to improve the lives of Nigerians through social investments, economic empowerment, education, health, and environmental initiatives.
Speaking on Friday through Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, during a food distribution event in Abia State, Senator Tinubu emphasized the progress the RHI has made since 2023. Essential food items were handed over to the wife of the Abia State Governor and RHI State Coordinator, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, for distribution to vulnerable groups in the state.
“We will be giving a grant of 200,000 Naira to 250 persons with disabilities to recapitalize their existing small businesses in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” Shettima announced on behalf of the First Lady.
She also highlighted other ongoing initiatives, including environmental programs targeting secondary and tertiary students, and a menstrual hygiene campaign. “We will distribute 10,000 packs, a year’s supply of sanitary pads, to each state to encourage young girls, especially in rural areas, to remain in school during their menstrual cycle,” she said.
Shettima noted that food donations have already reached 11 states and the FCT and that RHI’s efforts would continue to expand in 2025. “As we distribute food items to families today, we implore and encourage you to make diligent use of these items,” she added, urging beneficiaries not to sell the food supplies.
Lady Otti, wife of Abia State Governor and host of the event, commended the First Lady for her commitment to combating hunger. “Under the dynamic leadership of the First Lady of our great nation, we thank you for always looking out for your children in all 36 states,” she said.
She assured that the food distribution would be carried out transparently and fairly. “Beneficiaries will include women’s groups, religious organizations, people with disabilities, and political groups from across the state—because hunger knows no ethnicity, religion, or political leaning,” she emphasized.
Governor Alex Otti also praised the First Lady for going beyond palliative distribution to tackle long-term socioeconomic challenges. “RHI’s programs in healthcare, education, agriculture, and economic empowerment can transform lives and uplift the economic potential of millions,” he said. “The goal at all times should be to reduce the number of people living below the poverty line by providing a path to economic sustainability and independence.”