…As Oyo Beneficiaries Receive N200,000 Each, Programme Becomes Annual National Initiative
In a landmark move to strengthen economic inclusion and uplift thousands of Nigerians with disabilities, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a nationwide empowerment programme under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). The initiative, unveiled in Oyo State as part of the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, marks one of the most ambitious disability-focused economic support schemes in recent years.
The programme will provide 250 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory with business recapitalization grants of N200,000 each, enabling beneficiaries to grow their enterprises, enhance self-reliance, and improve their livelihoods. In addition, each state, the FCT, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) will receive N50 million to boost support for PWDs within their respective domains.
In total, 9,500 Nigerians with disabilities are expected to benefit—bringing the total national investment to a remarkable N1.9 billion.
Represented by the Wife of the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, Senator Tinubu emphasized that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive growth and ensures that “no Nigerian is left behind,” especially those belonging to vulnerable groups.
She highlighted that the Renewed Hope Initiative has, over the last two years, reached more than 100,000 petty traders and small business owners—many of them women and PWDs—with financial support and capacity-building interventions.
Beyond economic empowerment, Senator Tinubu noted the RHI’s wider impact across agriculture, education, health, and humanitarian outreach. The initiative has provided relief materials to victims of floods, communal clashes, and other disasters while delivering food assistance to 22 states, the FCT, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and several underserved communities.
In a major announcement welcomed by disability advocates across the country, the First Lady declared that the new Economic Empowerment Programme for PWDs will henceforth be observed annually every December 3rd in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
She urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds, stressing that the intervention is designed to help them build sustainable income streams and long-term security. Senator Tinubu also commended Governor Seyi Makinde and his wife, Engr. Makinde, for their strong collaboration and support during the programme launch.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Barr. Ayodele Adekanmbi, reaffirmed the state government’s unwavering commitment to disability inclusion. He stated that under Governor Makinde’s administration, deliberate structures have been established to guarantee participation, protection, and empowerment for PWDs across critical sectors—including education, health, employment, infrastructure, and social welfare.
Barr. Adekanmbi described the governor’s model as a “purpose-driven inclusive governance approach” that not only strengthens the state but also promotes fairness, equity, and sustainable development. He assured that Oyo State is committed to building a society where every person, regardless of ability, thrives without barriers.
“As a government, we remain resolute in deepening inclusion, expanding opportunities, and securing a brighter future for all,” he said.
The launch event in Oyo State drew widespread praise, with many describing it as a significant boost to national disability empowerment efforts. Stakeholders believe the initiative will enhance economic resilience among PWDs, reduce vulnerability, and inspire other stakeholders—public and private—to intensify support for disability-inclusive development across Nigeria.
