The First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, represented the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, at the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities in Umuahia. The event took place at the Michael Okpara Auditorium and aligned with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It was held simultaneously across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.
A total of 250 individuals with disabilities in Abia State received N200,000 Business Recapitalization Grants to support their small businesses. They also received quality foodstuffs as part of the intervention aimed at improving livelihoods. According to organisers, the gesture reflects Senator Tinubu’s commitment to humanitarian development in partnership with Mrs Otti.
Speaking at the event, government representatives commended the initiative, describing it as an effort that will “enhance citizens’ lives and expand opportunities for inclusion.”
Among attendees were Mrs Chinenye Nwaka, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Women’s Affairs, Professor Ijeoma Iheukwumere, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Mr David Anyaele, Chairman of the Abia State Disability Commission, and Chief Mrs Victoria Onwubiko, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Abia State Signages and Advertising Agency. Officials encouraged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly to grow their businesses and improve their wellbeing.
