The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has donated ₦1 billion to victims of recent flooding, fire outbreaks, and a boat accident in Niger State during a condolence visit to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the people of the state.
She described the flood in Mokwa, which left more than 159 people dead, destroyed over 400 homes, and displaced more than 3,000 residents, as a tragic event that necessitated her visit to bring relief to affected communities.
According to Mrs Tinubu, the strength of a nation lies in its compassion, urging Nigerians to care for one another in times of distress.
“In support of the rebuilding efforts of the Niger State Government, the Governing Council of the Renewed Hope Initiative is donating the sum of ₦1 billion, along with relief materials including clothes, shoes, and 2,000 bags of 50kg rice to the state.
“The funds will be directed towards housing support and essential supplies to help displaced families get back on their feet, earning daily living and having a better life. This is in line with the objective of the Renewed Hope Initiative, as contained in our motto, Towards a Better Life for Families.
“As a mother, I share your pain and grief over this irreplaceable loss and devastation. I believe that we all can collectively overcome this tragedy and help this community heal. May God comfort you and grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed.” She said.
Governor Appreciates Renewed Hope Initiative
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago appreciated the First Lady and her Renewed Hope Initiative for the donations, noting that the initiative has brought hope to many across the country.
He gave the assurance that the funds and materials would be deployed for their intended purpose and help restore joy to victims of the disasters.
Women’s Empowerment Programme Launched
While in the state, the First Lady also flagged off the Renewed Hope Initiative/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Empowerment Programme, aimed at boosting the businesses of women traders and small-scale entrepreneurs.
“This Economic Empowerment Programme is about supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of our women traders and small-scale business owners who wake up each day determined to provide for their families, educate their children, and uplift their communities.
“Let me emphasise that this is not a loan. It is a grant and a seed of renewed hope to help you re-capitalise your existing businesses. It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation.
“I thank the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which donated ₦1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative, to directly support 18,500 women across the nation. Five hundred women from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory will be receiving ₦50,000 each to strengthen and re-capitalise their existing small businesses,” she added.
Visit to Former Nigerian Leaders
To conclude her one-day visit, the First Lady paid courtesy calls on two former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at their residences in Minna, the state capital.
She expressed joy at seeing both leaders in good health and conveyed the warm regards of her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.