In a strong message of empowerment mixed with accountability, 500 women entrepreneurs in Niger State have received ₦50,000 each as part of a Women Economic Empowerment Programme spearheaded by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
The event, held at the Women Multipurpose Hall in Minna, saw the Coordinator of RHI and wife of the Niger State Governor, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, challenge the beneficiaries to turn the grants into life-changing ventures for themselves and their families. She stressed that the funds should not be wasted on fleeting expenses but invested in sustainable businesses that could secure long-term income.
Hajiya Fatima expressed deep appreciation to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her unwavering commitment to the welfare of women in Niger State and across the country. She also lauded the Tony Elumelu Foundation for supporting initiatives aimed at lifting women out of economic vulnerability.
“This ₦50,000 is not just money—it is an opportunity to start small and grow something meaningful. Use it wisely,” she told the beneficiaries.
Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Eunice Afiniki Dauda, representing Gurara Constituency, took a firmer stance, warning that she would be monitoring all of Zone B to ensure the grants were being put to proper use.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Women and Affirmative Action, Mary Noel Berje, echoed this, urging the women to multiply “the little given” by starting small businesses that could yield bigger results over time.
Some beneficiaries shared their joy and plans for the funds. Aisha Asaba Yawa said she never expected such support and was confident it would add great value to her business. Another recipient, Alheri Afi Mugunta, expressed gratitude to both the First Lady of Nigeria and the Governor’s wife for initiating the empowerment programme.
With the emphasis on both support and scrutiny, the scheme signals a shift toward result-driven empowerment programmes in Niger State, where beneficiaries are expected to show tangible progress.
