The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasized the crucial role of Small and Medium Enterprises, particularly women petty traders, in Nigeria’s local economy.
Represented by the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, at the Renewed Hope Initiative economic empowerment program in Awka, Mrs. Tinubu stated: “The empowerment of 1,000 women petty traders across the nation is a part of our continued commitment to drive economic growth towards a better life for families. We are all aware of the challenges faced by petty traders, who form the backbone of our local economies. These challenges, however, have not deterred the strength of our women to put food on the table for their families.”
She added: “Today, through the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme, we are providing 1,000 pre-selected women petty traders per state with a grant of N50,000 each to recapitalise and grow their businesses. Women traders are the heart of our local economies, we celebrate your hard work and determination. When women thrive, their families thrive, and by extension, our communities and nation prosper.”
Tinubu urged the beneficiaries to utilize the grant to grow their businesses and become self-reliant, while also praying for the success of the federal and state governments.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Nnaemeka Nwachukwu from Idemili South, expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Soludo’s wife for prioritizing women’s welfare, saying: “This money is coming at a time when we need it the most. It will surely go a long way to boost our trades and support our families.”
