First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday, restated the federal government’s commitment to uplifting women economically through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

She stated that the initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce poverty and achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the distribution of empowerment items to 500 women in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the First Lady said the initiative aimed to support women-led businesses and strengthen household incomes.

The First Lady was represented by the wife of the Ogun State governor, Bamidele Abiodun.

The event, organised under the RHI, saw the distribution of essential equipment, including cooking gas cylinders, grinding machines, and generators, to the selected beneficiaries.

“This initiative is expected to strengthen your income sources, support your families, and contribute to the economic development of Ogun State.

“This is only the beginning. With the continued support of President Tinubu, we are confident that the programme will expand to reach more women in the state,” Mrs Tinubu said.

On her part, Mrs Abiodun, who also serves as the Ogun State coordinator of RHI, highlighted the significant strides the initiative had made in the state, particularly in agricultural and financial empowerment.

She recalled the recent inauguration of the Women Agricultural Support Programme, which provided women across local government areas with access to farmlands, seedlings, farming inputs, and training to improve food production and ensure economic sustainability.

“Beyond agriculture, the RHI has provided financial empowerment through grants and soft loans that have enabled women to start or scale up small and medium-sized businesses,” she added.

According to her, more than 100,000 women and families across Nigeria have so far benefited directly from the initiative since its inception, with the number continuing to grow.

One of the beneficiaries, Dolapo Ifatuwase, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the First Lady for their efforts in addressing poverty and promoting economic inclusion.

(NAN)