The Edo State Government has empowered 250 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with cash grants of N200,000 each through the Office of the First Lady, under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) championed by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu. The empowerment was carried out in Benin City as part of activities marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reflecting efforts to promote inclusion and support vulnerable groups.
At the event held at the New Festival Hall of the Government House, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, reiterated the importance of supporting PWDs and called for an end to discrimination. He described them as God’s creation who deserve care and equal opportunities. The Governor further announced the donation of a bus to the Community to strengthen mobility and welfare support, stressing that the government remains dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged populations.
In her address delivered by the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Sen. Tinubu revealed that the programme was launched simultaneously across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. She explained that the initiative involves grants for 9,500 individuals nationwide to boost small businesses, aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s economic vision.
According to her, the aim is to promote economic independence and support vulnerable citizens, especially on the International Day of People Living with Disabilities. She stated, Our social investment programmes have provided financial and material supports to victims of flood, communal clashes, and disaster, as well as to the elderly, widows, and the orphans of our fallen heroes. She added that food assistance has been delivered to 22 states and the FCT, including internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities. She emphasized that RHI remains committed to uplifting lives and restoring hope.
Sen. Tinubu noted that the RHI Governing Board has now designated economic empowerment for PWDs as an annual activity to be held every 3rd of December. She encouraged beneficiaries to use the grants responsibly, grow their enterprises, and support their households.
Mrs. Anani urged government officials to consider PWDs in areas of employment, education, and infrastructure development, stressing their strengths and potential. She expressed concern over sexual assault and gender-based violence against persons with disabilities, calling for better care systems, accessible healthcare, and communication support tailored to their needs.
Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, reaffirmed that the government is committed to inclusion. He supported the establishment of a commission for PWDs, noting that the administration of Sen. Okpebholo intends to improve welfare and bring PWDs into mainstream governance.
The Executive Director of the Network for the Advancement of Persons with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID), Melody Omosah Esq., commended the Governor for prioritising the establishment and sustainability of the Commission for PWDs and integrating them into government programmes. He said this empowerment marked the first major direct engagement between the government and the disability community.
Barr. Omosah stressed the resilience and capability of PWDs. He highlighted their desire for opportunities, education, and a fair system that allows them to contribute meaningfully. He explained that they should be defined by their capabilities and not their disabilities, calling for stakeholders to value dignity, competence, and the contributions of PWDs to social development.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude, including Mrs. Glory Inegbenehi, a visually impaired teacher and widow from Idia College in Benin City. She promised to invest the support in profitable ventures instead of wasteful spending, describing the gesture as timely and impactful for her business plans.
