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Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Zamfara PWDs with N200,000 Cash Grants

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Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Zamfara PWDs with N200,000 Cash Grants

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative Social Investment, has empowered 250 Persons Living With Disabilities in Zamfara State with N200,000 cash support each to boost their livelihoods and small businesses.

The gesture focused on veterans from the military, police and other paramilitary agencies who are physically challenged. It was carried out in line with efforts to strengthen economic independence among vulnerable citizens.

The empowerment also marked the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” The day is observed every December 3 to create awareness on disability issues and support the dignity and rights of people with disabilities. The observance has been promoted globally by the United Nations since 1992.

Presenting the grants in Gusau, the first lady expressed happiness at the rollout of the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities under the RHI Social Investment Programme. She was represented by the Zamfara State governor’s wife, Huriyya Lawal, who said the event was significant because it coincided with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and was being launched across all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.

Oluremi Tinubu said, “The nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. As Helen Keller, the renowned American disability rights advocate, once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’”

She explained that the words highlight the value of unity and inclusion in building a society that embraces the contributions of everyone. According to her, “These words remind us that a truly inclusive society is built when we stand together, creating opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts to the collective progress.”

She announced that the Renewed Hope Initiative would provide N200,000 business recapitalisation grants to each of the 250 beneficiaries in all the 36 states and the FCT to help strengthen existing businesses and improve livelihoods. She added that every state, the FCT and DEPOWA would receive N50,000,000 each to support beneficiaries. In total, 9,500 persons with disabilities nationwide are expected to benefit from the programme, totalling N1,900,000,000.

According to her, the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda which promotes inclusive development and shared prosperity, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind, especially those with overlooked needs. She said the Renewed Hope Initiative had already supported more than 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners, including physically challenged persons, with direct financial assistance to grow their ventures.

She reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving lives through several interventions in agriculture, education, health, social welfare and economic empowerment. She added that the Social Investment Programmes also extended support to victims of flooding, communal conflicts and disasters, as well as the elderly, widows and orphans of fallen heroes.

“To all our beneficiaries, I encourage you to make good use of this opportunity. Let it be a seed that grows into something greater, a business that sustains you and your families. I thank the governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, and his wife, Huriyya, for all the support; happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities,” she said.

Appreciating the initiative, the Chairman of Persons With Disabilities in Zamfara State, Usman Nahuche, praised the federal government for its continuous efforts to assist physically challenged citizens. He said the empowerment would rekindle hope and improve economic stability for beneficiaries. “I believe the beneficiaries will effectively utilise the grant to boost their businesses,” he stated.

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Kebbi Empowers 1,000 PWDs with Grants, Tricycles and Food Support

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Kebbi Empowers 1,000 PWDs with Grants, Tricycles and Food Support

Kebbi State Government has empowered 1,000 persons with disabilities as part of its commitment to promoting inclusion and social progress. The support package was officially flagged off in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday by the State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, who reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of persons with special needs.

A breakdown of the beneficiaries shows that 250 people received N200,000 each through the Renewed Hope Initiative, 650 beneficiaries were given a special capital grant of N100,000, while 100 persons benefitted from solar powered tricycles to enhance mobility and income opportunities. The Deputy Governor explained that the government’s efforts reflect its belief that the welfare of persons with disabilities is not an afterthought but a key part of development planning.

He urged the beneficiaries to embrace vocational and skill development programmes, saying these opportunities are essential for self reliance. “Embrace the various vocational and skills training programs offered and supported by the government, as the key to unlocking economic self reliance,” he advised. He encouraged them to use the support received to shape their destiny and contribute to a brighter future for Kebbi State.

Senator Umar Tafida assured continued support from the Kauran Gwandu led administration, while commending the resilience and spirit of persons with disabilities in the state. In her remarks, the First Lady, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, announced that 250 persons with special needs would receive N200,000 each under the Renewed Hope Initiative from the office of the wife of the President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu.

In addition to the grants and tricycles, Hajiya Zainab Nasare supported the empowerment programme with 1,000 bags of rice. This ensures that every beneficiary receives a bag as part of the distribution. She noted that the gesture complements the state government’s efforts to provide relief and improve livelihoods.

Governor Nasir Idris has also made assistive devices, educational support, and skills acquisition programmes accessible to people with disabilities. Speaking during the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs, Comrade Abba Muhammad Isah, praised the Kebbi State Government for establishing the State Persons with Disability Commission. He described the continuous support from the administration as an example of strong leadership committed to inclusion.

The Chairman of the commission, Hon. Anas Malami Gwandu, also commended the Governor and his wife for what he called their unwavering support for persons with disabilities. He said the intervention reflects genuine concern for vulnerable groups and strengthens their chances of becoming active contributors to society.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Zayyanu Umar Aliero, stated that the event, themed “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” aligns with ongoing global advocacy for protection and inclusion. He explained that the empowerment of 1,000 people includes 250 beneficiaries supported by the Renewed Hope Initiative, 650 recipients of the state capital grant, and 100 tricycle beneficiaries.

Hon. Zayyanu reaffirmed the distribution of 1,000 bags of rice donated by the First Lady, adding that each participant will receive at least one bag. Highlights of the event included the symbolic flag off by the Deputy Governor and Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, as well as entertainment performances by selected artistes to celebrate the occasion.

Oluremi Tinubu Gives Ekiti Persons With Disabilities N200,000 Grants Each

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Oluremi Tinubu Gives Ekiti Persons With Disabilities N200,000 Grants Each

The First Lady of Nigeria and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti State with a N50,000,000 grant aimed at boosting their economic independence and supporting their livelihoods. Each beneficiary received N200,000 during a ceremony held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu was represented at the event by the Wife of Ekiti State Governor and RHI State Coordinator, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji. She stressed the importance of inclusion and equal opportunity, noting that the empowerment aligns with a national vision to ensure no citizen is left behind socially or economically. According to her, the event was part of activities marking the International Day of PWDs.

The First Lady also launched the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for PWDs, explaining that the initiative held simultaneously in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. She stated that the programme would provide recapitalization grants of N200,000 to 250 beneficiaries in each state to help strengthen existing businesses, improve livelihoods, and support self-reliance among people living with disabilities.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the initiative reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She explained that the agenda seeks shared prosperity and inclusive growth for all groups, including those whose needs are often overlooked. She emphasized that the Renewed Hope Initiative has spent the last two years supporting more than 100,000 women petty traders and small business owners across the country. The support, she said, has also covered agriculture, education, health, and emergency relief for vulnerable communities, disaster victims, and internally displaced persons.

Expressing her gratitude to Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji and his wife for backing the programme and supporting the efforts of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu promised that the empowerment programme would become an annual tradition for PWDs. She stated, “Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. As Helen Keller, the renowned American disability rights advocate, once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ These words remind us that a truly inclusive society is built when we stand together, creating opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts to our collective progress.”

She further highlighted the detailed structure of the grants, saying, “Today, the Renewed Hope Initiative will provide the sum of two hundred thousand naira (N200,000) Business Recapitalization Grants to two hundred and fifty (250) Persons with Disabilities in each State and the Federal Capital Territory to support small business owners to recapitalize their existing businesses and strengthen their means of livelihood.”

The First Lady reiterated the significance of the programme, adding, “This programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, especially those whose needs are often overlooked and it is worth noting that, over the past two years, the Renewed Hope Initiative has supported over one hundred thousand (100,000) women petty traders and small business owners, including persons with disabilities, with direct financial grants to grow their businesses.”

The event was attended by Deputy Governor Chief Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, Commissioner for Education Dr Bimpe Aderiye, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion Princess Adetoun Agboola, and other top government officials, who applauded the initiative and its impact on disability inclusion in the state.

Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Delta PWDs with N200,000 Grants Each

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Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Delta PWDs with N200,000 Grants Each

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons With Disabilities, with Delta State joining the nationwide rollout to support vulnerable citizens. The programme was unveiled in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of Persons With Disabilities and was implemented at the same time across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.

Representing the First Lady in Delta State, the Wife of the Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, led the distribution of the empowerment grants to beneficiaries from across the state. Under the initiative, 250 persons with different forms of disabilities in Delta State each received N200,000 business recapitalization grants. The fund is aimed at helping them strengthen their small businesses and improve their financial independence. Each state, including the FCT and DEPOWA, was also allocated N50 million for onward distribution to their beneficiaries.

In her national address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said that Nigeria becomes stronger when every citizen is empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development. She explained that the empowerment scheme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on inclusive growth and social investment. According to her, a total of 9,500 persons with disabilities across Nigeria will benefit from N1.9 billion in grants. She reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.

In Asaba, Deaconess Oborevwori praised the First Lady’s compassion and dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups. She described persons with disabilities as individuals “full of gifts and potential,” and urged society to show greater love, understanding, and inclusiveness. She encouraged beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity, noting that the intervention is meant to bring relief and improve their livelihoods.

The RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons With Disabilities has been institutionalized as an annual initiative to be celebrated every December 3rd in line with the United Nations’ International Day of Persons With Disabilities. As part of the activities in Delta State, Deaconess Oborevwori presented a wheelchair to one of the beneficiaries, a gesture that was warmly received by attendees.

An excited beneficiary, Mr Daniel Nwutu, who received the wheelchair, expressed gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady for launching the programme for persons in his category. He said the grant and mobility aid would significantly improve his business, independence, and quality of life. Others described the initiative as a transformative opportunity that brings hope, dignity, and encouragement to persons with disabilities across the state and Nigeria.

Tinubu’s Wife Empowers 250 Bayelsa PLWDs with ₦200,000 Each

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Tinubu’s Wife Empowers 250 Bayelsa PLWDs with ₦200,000 Each

The Renewed Hope Initiative has continued its support for Persons Living with Disability (PLWD) as it extended its Financial Empowerment Intervention to beneficiaries in Bayelsa State on Wednesday during activities marking the World Disability Day. The programme took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Yenagoa where 250 persons each received N200,000 under the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme.

The Wife of the Governor and Coordinator of RHI in Bayelsa State, Dr. Mrs. Gloria Diri, described the gesture as an important stride towards inclusion and growth. She said the empowerment reflects the organisation’s commitment to poverty alleviation, economic development, sustainable livelihood and improved well-being for beneficiaries.

According to her, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has carefully designed and executed strategic programmes nationwide to ensure no group is left behind. She noted that the initiative is being implemented across the Thirty Six States and the FCT with the theme Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.

Speaking through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Children Affairs Empowerment and Social Development, Pastor Agnes Oloye, Dr. Diri urged beneficiaries to see themselves beyond their physical challenges. She explained that the financial support is expected to help Small and Medium Entrepreneurs grow their businesses and integrate better into their communities.

“There is Ability in Disability, I want to Encourage you to See this as an Enabler not Pity, because You are Complete in Various Ways,” she said. She advised recipients to identify their strengths, pursue education, skills and ventures that will uplift rather than limit their potential. She added that modern technology has created opportunities to make once difficult tasks achievable with minimal effort.

Dr. Diri also thanked the Wife of the President for providing support for vulnerable groups in the country, saying the gesture aligns with the RHI Social Investment objectives targeted at improving family welfare.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Association of Persons Living with Disability in Bayelsa State, Mr. Ekpomokumor Mayor, expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for the intervention. He appealed for stronger legal frameworks and policies that protect and include Persons Living with Disability at all levels of government.

According to him, laws that prioritise the welfare of the physically challenged will help build a society where everyone can participate meaningfully. He stressed that support initiatives like this are a boost to the independence and dignity of PLWD, while urging government institutions to ensure continuity and enforcement of disability-focused legislation.

National Health Fellows 2.0 Shortlisted Candidates for Interview

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National Health Fellows 2.0 Shortlisted Candidates for Interview

The National Health Fellows NHF 2.0 Programme is sending emails to shortlisted candidates for the start of selections for the interview phase. The first round of virtual interviews will follow soon after the notification process.

The email sent to selected candidates reads, “Congratulations! We are delighted to inform you that you have successfully qualified for an interview for the National Health Fellow Program. A Google Meet invite was sent to your email a few hours ago with the title ‘Interview – National Health Fellows Programme’. Kindly join the session for your interview on: Date: Friday, December 5th 2025 Time: 3:35 PM.”

NHF 2.0 interviews are scheduled to run from 4 to 10 December, 2025, and applicants who were shortlisted are expected to take note of their specific interview date and time.

One of the shortlisted candidates received an email stating, Interview – National Health Fellows Programme @ Mon Dec 8, 2025 9am – 6pm GMT+1.

Shortlisted National Health Fellows for the virtual interview are to prepare their required documents, including Resume (CV), Birth Certificate or Age Declaration Affidavit, State of Origin Certificate, Degree Certificate, NYSC Discharge Certificate, and a letter of recommendation (optional but helpful).

All applicants are to note that only candidates who made the shortlist are being contacted.

662 Katsina Students Receive ₦32.8m Scholarship Disbursement

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662 Katsina Students Receive ₦32.8m Scholarship Disbursement

A total of ₦32,797,320.00 has been disbursed to 662 students from Daura Local Government as Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, commended the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, for sustaining educational support through the Nasiriyya Educational Programme Special Scholarship Scheme. The commendation came in Daura during the formal presentation of the 2025 scholarship disbursement by the Assembly Speaker.

Governor Radda described the initiative as a strong display of Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura’s leadership, compassion, and commitment to human capital growth. He noted that the support complements his administration’s ongoing education reforms aimed at widening opportunities for young people across Katsina State.

The Governor explained that his administration cleared years of pending scholarship arrears, restored timely payments, strengthened bursary systems, and expanded access to educational programmes within and outside the country. He stated that helping students secure education remains a priority.

“This initiative by the Speaker is not just about paying fees — it is about giving hope, opening doors, and securing the future of our children. What Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura has done is commendable, inspiring, and fully aligns with our vision of ensuring that no child in Katsina State is denied education because of financial constraints,” the Governor said.

He urged the scholarship beneficiaries to remain focused on their studies and to show gratitude through excellence.

“You must justify this huge investment made in you by the Speaker and the good people of Daura. Use this opportunity wisely, stay focused, and become worthy ambassadors of your communities and Katsina State,” he added.

Governor Radda further assured that his administration will continue to strengthen education at all levels through improved infrastructure, teacher training, student welfare, and technology-based learning to build a more competitive generation.

Earlier, the Speaker told the gathering that the Special Scholarship Scheme was created to remove financial obstacles, uplift families, and ensure that no student from Daura Local Government is left unattended in their educational pursuit.

According to the Committee overseeing the initiative, ₦32,797,320.00 has been released to 662 students studying at different academic levels, including National Diploma, Nigeria Certificate in Education, Higher National Diploma, first-degree programmes, and pupils in primary and secondary schools.

The breakdown shows beneficiaries enrolled in 25 institutions, including Umaru Musa Yar’adua University Katsina, Federal University Dutsinma, Sani Zangon Daura School of Health Technology, Federal Polytechnic Daura, Nana Babajo School of Nursing Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Bayero University Kano, and the Federal University of Transportation Daura.

The Committee explained that the scholarships were released in three batches: 514 students in September 2024, 105 in November 2024, and 13 additional beneficiaries approved by the Speaker. This brought the total number supported under his four-year scholarship intervention to 662.

“The Committee will return to the institutions in 2026 to commence the second cycle of payments for all beneficiaries,” the Committee added.

Key figures in attendance included the Senator representing Daura Zone, Alhaji Nasir Sani Zango; Member representing Zango/Baure Federal Constituency, Alhaji Sani Lawal Garki; Member representing Daura/Sandamu/Maiadua, Alhaji Aminu Jamo; Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; and the National Legal Adviser of APC, Barrister Murtala Aliyu Kankia.

Others present were APC State Chairman, Sani Aliyu Daura; Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; and members of the State Executive Council.

Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Plateau PWDs with N200,000 Grants Each

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Oluremi Tinubu Empowers 250 Plateau PWDs with N200,000 Grants Each

Plateau State on Wednesday joined the national observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as the wife of the state governor, Helen Mutfwang, represented the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, to give N200,000 each to 250 persons living with disabilities in Jos. She said the intervention was carried out under the Renewed Hope Initiative, noting that it was designed to help beneficiaries recapitalise their small ventures and move toward sustainable livelihoods.

According to Mrs Mutfwang, the distribution in Plateau was part of a wider national programme coordinated by the Office of the First Lady. She explained that every state across the federation as well as the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association would receive N50 million for further support to persons with disabilities within their areas. She noted that 9,500 Nigerians nationwide would share a total of N1.9 billion under the initiative.

The governor’s wife said the support reflected the federal commitment to inclusive growth and improved economic participation for vulnerable citizens. She added that the initiative had earlier reached more than 100,000 traders, including people living with disabilities, through different social economic interventions.

She urged the 250 recipients in Plateau State to use the grants wisely, saying the funds were meant to strengthen families and support long term stability rather than provide temporary relief.

State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Caroline Dafur, said the grant would promote inclusion and empower persons living with disabilities to expand businesses or begin new ventures. She explained that this could help improve daily living conditions and reduce dependency.

Chairman of the Disability Commission, Dr Lengnen Jurmang, described the programme as a major boost to economic independence for people living with disabilities. He applauded government commitment to inclusion and urged beneficiaries to channel the resources into business growth for lasting impact.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude, saying the involvement of the governor’s wife in marking World Disability Day gave them recognition and hope. A recipient, Janet Maidawa, said the support would revive her small business and give her renewed confidence to provide for her family.

Another beneficiary, Garba Ukasha, said the grant would expand his trade and push him closer to financial independence despite daily struggles. Also, Hannatu Bature said the gesture came at the right time, noting that the funds would allow them to buy needed equipment and improve their ability to earn steady income.

Otti Gives N1m Each to 150 Abia Poly Graduates to Start Businesses

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Otti Gives N1m Each to 150 Abia Poly Graduates to Start Businesses

Governor Alex Otti has fulfilled his promise to support young achievers as he empowered 150 outstanding graduates of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, formerly Abia Poly, with N1 million each to begin any business of their choice. The grant was given to three sets of Higher National Diploma graduates covering the 2021/2022, 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 sessions. The Governor had first made this pledge during the last graduation ceremony of the institution, stating that the initiative was aimed at encouraging academic excellence and building the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The monetary support was formally disbursed at the institution’s auditorium. Speaking during the event, the Rector, Dr Christopher Kalu Okoro, praised Governor Otti for keeping to his word and described the gesture as the first of its kind in Nigeria. He stated that the programme was not politically motivated but targeted at empowering young people. According to him, “This is the first time in the history of our country that a state government will be giving out such amount of money, not for political reasons, but to empower young generation.”

He explained that the aim of the grant was to help students transition from academic study to business leadership, noting that each beneficiary had submitted a business proposal before selection. “The essence of this fund is to make students entrepreneurs,” he said. The Rector further clarified that applicants needed to have graduated with at least a 3.00 CGPA, representing upper credit, and must have completed their clearance and collected their certificates. “You don’t expect us to give you grants when you don’t have our certificates,” he told the audience.

Dr Okoro urged the beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly by focusing on their business plans. He cautioned against wasteful spending, saying, “This money is not for Brazilian hair, it’s not for bone straight, it’s not for Bet Naija. It is expected that this money will grow and make you a bigger person so that tomorrow, you can give back to society. It’s not a loan, it’s a grant for you to start up business and become better in life.”

In his remark, the Students Union Government President, Comrade Michael Maduka, described the gesture as unprecedented and inspiring. He applauded the Governor for fulfilling his promise, adding that it would encourage students to work harder and aim for excellence. “We are delighted that the Governor has today, fulfilled his promise, and it will motivate us to be more serious with our studies to enable us qualify in future,” he stated.

Some beneficiaries also shared their excitement. Joseph Egwuatu, a graduate of Accounting who currently runs a poultry accessory business, said the grant would help him expand. Another recipient, Cyril Emmanuel, who studied Business Administration, revealed that he intended to grow his shoe material business and create jobs. Emmanuel expressed his ambition to employ at least 10 youths in the near future as a way of giving back. Similarly, Harmony Nduka, a Mass Communication graduate involved in printing business, said she would invest in new equipment and expressed gratitude to the Governor and the school.

Earlier at a pre-convocation press briefing, the Rector outlined several achievements the institution had recorded under Governor Otti’s leadership. He announced that the school had introduced 17 new accredited programmes within the year, including courses in Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, and Machatronics. He added that 14 existing courses, among them Mass Communication which lacked accreditation for 15 years, had now been approved.

The Rector also stated that the institution had abolished the issuance of statements of results and streamlined certificate processing, boasting that students now collect their certificates on their graduation day. According to him, over 30,000 certificates had been issued in less than two years.

Dr Okoro explained that he had stopped the sale of textbooks and handouts on campus, insisting that lecturers were hired to teach, not sell materials. He also made skill acquisition compulsory to ensure students were self-reliant. In addition, the Polytechnic’s Welding and Fabrication Department had taken on government contracts, producing doors for Abia public schools and buckets for Abia State Environmental Protection Agency.

He said this initiative had boosted the institution’s revenue and increased student enrolment in the department due to the financial incentives attached, as both students and staff involved in projects receive payments.

The Rector further highlighted Governor Otti’s support for infrastructure, including a 250-capacity lecture theatre, improved staff welfare, road asphalting, and clearance of salary arrears. He revealed that both academic and administrative activities would begin at the Osisioma permanent site by January 2026 following major construction works funded by the government. According to him, the Governor had approved the development of two 5000-capacity hostels for male and female students, and movement to the site would be done in phases.

As beneficiaries left the auditorium clutching their certificates and grant documents, the atmosphere was filled with optimism. Many expressed hope that the funds would change their lives, while school authorities and state representatives reiterated the need for accountability and innovation among young people.

The programme has set a precedent in youth support and education development, reinforcing the Governor’s drive for human capital investment and creating an environment where academic excellence is rewarded.

Tinubu’s Wife Empowers 250 PWDs in Oyo with ₦200,000 Grants Each

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Tinubu’s Wife Empowers 250 PWDs in Oyo with ₦200,000 Grants Each

Wife of Nigeria’s President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday provided financial support to 250 Persons With Disabilities across Oyo State as part of the nationwide Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme marking this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Under the scheme, 250 beneficiaries in the state each received ₦200,000 business recapitalisation grants, while the state was also given a ₦50 million support fund for wider distribution within its disability community. The programme was carried out at the same time across all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.

Represented in Ibadan by the wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunomini Makinde, Mrs. Tinubu said the initiative reflects the federal government’s drive to build an economy that includes all citizens. She stated, “Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully. Today, the Renewed Hope Initiative will provide ₦200,000 each to 250 persons with disabilities in every state, the FCT, and DEPOWA. Each state will also receive ₦50 million to support beneficiaries within its domain.”

She explained that a total of 9,500 persons with disabilities across the country would benefit from the intervention, amounting to ₦1.9 billion. Describing it as one of the largest empowerment schemes targeted at Nigerians with disabilities, she added, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. A truly inclusive society is built when we stand together and create opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts.”

The President’s wife stressed that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusion, protection, and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable groups. She highlighted earlier efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative, noting that over 100,000 petty traders and small business owners, including persons with disabilities, have received direct cash grants over the past two years.

“Our Social Investment Programmes have supported victims of floods, communal clashes, disasters, the elderly, widows, and orphans of our fallen heroes. Through our Monthly Food Outreach Scheme, food items have been delivered to 22 states and the FCT. We remain committed to doing even more,” she said.

Mrs. Tinubu also disclosed that the RHI Governing Board had approved that the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities will now take place every year on December 3. She expressed appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde and Oyo State First Lady, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, for their contribution towards promoting disability inclusion in the state.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Barr. Ayodele Adekanmbi, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive governance. He said, “Today reminds us that disability is not inability. Every individual, regardless of physical or cognitive differences, possesses immense value.”

He added that the state maintains deliberate representation across sectors such as education, health, employment, infrastructure, and social welfare to prevent marginalisation. According to him, “The Agency for Persons with Disabilities remains a hub for policy implementation, empowerment, and advocacy. Our goal is a state where every person can thrive without barriers.”

Speaking for the beneficiaries, Lawal Lateef Kayode thanked the First Lady and the government for the support. She assured that those who received the funds would invest them wisely to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

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