In a renewed effort to drive women’s economic empowerment and sustainable development, especially at the grassroots level, the First Lady of Nigeria and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, today launched the North Central Zone Women’s Empowerment Programme.
The initiative aims to directly impact 18,500 women across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, starting with 500 beneficiaries from each state in the North Central Zone.
A collaboration between the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), the program will provide women with essential tools and resources to start or grow their businesses, fostering economic independence and contributing to national development.
Delivering the keynote address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to women’s empowerment as a cornerstone of nation-building.
“This empowerment program will benefit 18,500 women across our six geopolitical zones. Today, we are equipping our women with essential tools such as deep-chest freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines to help them build successful businesses and contribute to our nation’s prosperity. Recognizing the critical role women play in our society, this initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes inclusivity, economic growth, and sustainable development for all Nigerians.”
She further highlighted the alignment of this initiative with global development goals.
“Women’s empowerment is central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). These items are not just tools; they are stepping stones toward financial independence and a better future for Nigerian women.”
Addressing the beneficiaries, the First Lady encouraged them to make the most of the support provided.
“To all beneficiaries here today, I urge you to use these resources wisely to build better lives for yourselves and your families. Let what you receive today prosper in your hands as you contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.”
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, emphasized the broader impact of the program on sustainable development.
“Today’s program is not just about distributing empowerment items; it is about unlocking potential, fostering economic independence, and creating opportunities for women to thrive. By equipping 500 women per state and the FCT with tools such as gas cookers, generators, deep freezers, and grinding machines, we are strengthening their capacity to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development.”
She commended the First Lady for her visionary leadership through RHI and reiterated OSSAP-SDGs’ commitment to ensuring no woman is left behind in Nigeria’s journey toward achieving the SDGs.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, underscored the significant role of domestic funding in women’s economic empowerment.
“This initiative is unprecedented. For years, empowerment programs have relied heavily on donor funding. Today marks a shift, as domestic resources are being mobilized under Mr. President’s leadership to empower women at all levels. When women are empowered, families thrive, children stay in school, and communities prosper. This program is a testament to our commitment to nation-building through women’s empowerment.”
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, highlighted the broader significance of empowering women.
“Women are the backbone of our society. This empowerment initiative is not just about material aid but represents opportunities for transformation and sustainable development.”
She further emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative.
“These items are stepping stones for women to build thriving businesses, support their families, and contribute meaningfully to our communities.”
The North Central Zone Women’s Empowerment Programme marks a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and economic inclusion in Nigeria.
With plans already underway for similar initiatives in other geopolitical zones, including the South-South region as the next beneficiary, this program underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering women as agents of change in achieving sustainable development.
