Nigeria’s First Lady Empowers 1,000 Petty Traders in Lagos State

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 1,000 petty traders in Lagos State with a grant of N50,000 each, totaling N50 million. This initiative is part of her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aimed at empowering women across the nation.

The grants were presented to the women at the State House, Ikeja, by Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State, representing Tinubu. The initiative focuses on providing financial support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly petty traders who form the backbone of local economies.

In her message, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges faced by SMEs and commended the women’s resilience. “You are the heart of our local economies, the foundation of our communities, and the unsung heroes of our nation,” she said.

The N50,000 grants are part of a nationwide initiative to help women recapitalize their businesses, expand operations, create jobs, and contribute to the Nigerian economy. Tinubu revealed that the initiative will disburse N1.85 billion to 37,000 women petty traders across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Tinubu emphasized the importance of economic empowerment, stating it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms. “Empowering women is not just a moral obligation but a strategic one. When women thrive, their families thrive, and by extension, our communities and nation prosper.”