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 of the intervention to support vulnerable citizens.
The programme, unveiled in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of Persons With Disabilities, was implemented simultaneously across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA).
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 drawn from across the state.
Under the initiative, 250 persons with different forms of disabilities in Delta State received N200,000 business recapitalization grants aimed at strengthening existing small businesses and enhancing financial independence. Each state, including the FCT and DEPOWA, also received N50 million for onward distribution to beneficiaries.
In her national address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria becomes stronger when every citizen is empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development. She noted that the empowerment scheme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive growth and social investment.
She stated that a total of 9,500 persons with disabilities across Nigeria will benefit from N1.9 billion in grants, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
Delivering her address in Asaba, Deaconess Oborevwori commended the First Lady’s compassion and dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups. She described persons with disabilities as individuals “full of gifts and potential,” urging society to show greater love, understanding, and inclusiveness. She encouraged beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity, noting that the support is intended to bring relief and enhance their livelihoods.
The RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons With Disabilities has also 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 Delta State rollout, Deaconess Oborevwori presented a wheelchair to one of the beneficiaries, a gesture warmly received by attendees.
An excited beneficiary, Mr Daniel Nwutu expressed gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady for launching this programme for persons in his category. Mr Nwutu who is the recipient of the wheelchair, said that 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.
