Chioma Vivian James
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has once again demonstrated her commitment to grassroots development and social inclusion with the launch of a ₦100 million empowerment package targeted at 2,000 petty traders in Kogi State. The intervention, unveiled in Lokoja under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has drawn widespread commendation from stakeholders, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, who described the programme as a practical and impactful demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action.
The empowerment package, designed to provide financial support for petty traders across the state, aims to help beneficiaries recapitalize, expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods. The initiative forms part of the First Lady’s broader vision of promoting economic inclusion, reducing poverty and creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable Nigerians.
Speaking during the launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme for the North Central Zone in Lokoja, Senator Tinubu emphasized the importance of self-reliance and entrepreneurship as pathways to economic empowerment. She encouraged Nigerians to embrace every legitimate means of livelihood, stressing that every individual possesses unique talents and capabilities that can be transformed into productive and sustainable sources of income.
According to the First Lady, Kogi State remains strategically positioned for economic growth due to its vast natural and human resources. She urged residents to take advantage of available opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the state and the nation.
Beyond the financial intervention for traders, Senator Tinubu highlighted the significance of the National Community Food Bank Programme as a critical component of efforts to tackle food insecurity and improve nutrition among vulnerable populations. She explained that the initiative was designed to provide access to nutritious food for households facing economic hardship, with particular attention to pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and other disadvantaged groups.
The launch in Kogi marked the third phase of the nationwide programme, following successful rollouts in Borno and Jigawa states. The First Lady called on state governments across the federation to embrace and support the initiative while urging traditional rulers to mobilize their communities for active participation and ownership of the programme.
Reacting to the empowerment package and food security intervention, Ambassador Enikanolaiye praised Senator Tinubu for translating the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians.
“The gesture of Her Excellency, the First Lady, speaks volumes about her compassion and unwavering commitment to vulnerable citizens, underserved communities and those striving to improve their economic conditions,” he said.
According to the minister, the ₦100 million support scheme represents a direct intervention with immediate impact, particularly for small-scale traders who form a significant part of the informal economy.
“This initiative proves that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not merely a policy slogan. It is a people-centered programme delivering real support to Nigerians at the grassroots level. The beneficiaries will not only improve their businesses but also contribute to local economic growth and community development,” Enikanolaiye added.
The minister also used the occasion to commend Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for what he described as visionary and people-oriented leadership. He noted that the governor’s administration has continued to prioritize programmes and projects aimed at improving healthcare delivery, social welfare and economic development across the state.
Enikanolaiye particularly acknowledged the role of the First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, whom he described as a compassionate advocate for women, children and vulnerable groups. He noted that her interventions have complemented government efforts in addressing critical social challenges and promoting inclusive development.
Among the landmark projects highlighted during the event were the newly commissioned headquarters of the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency, the Treasury House named in honour of the First Lady, the upgraded Primary Healthcare Centre in the Lokongoma Housing Estate and the North Central Community Food Bank facility.
According to the minister, these projects collectively demonstrate the administration’s determination to improve the quality of life of residents and build stronger institutions for sustainable development.
He further observed that the Community Food Bank would play a significant role in strengthening food security, reducing hunger and supporting vulnerable households, while the upgraded healthcare facilities and insurance agency headquarters would enhance access to quality healthcare services for citizens.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye also expressed appreciation for the recent successful rescue of abducted victims within the state, describing it as evidence of the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He stressed that security remains a critical foundation for development and economic prosperity.
Reflecting on the significance of the day’s events, the minister emphasized that sustainable development requires collective effort and collaboration among government, citizens, development partners and the private sector.
“What we have witnessed in Lokoja today is leadership driven by compassion, vision and commitment to the people. These initiatives will stimulate economic activity, strengthen food security, improve healthcare delivery and create a more prosperous future for residents of Kogi State and the North Central region,” he said.
The event attracted a large gathering of government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, youth representatives and development stakeholders from across the North Central geopolitical zone. Their presence underscored the broad support for initiatives aimed at empowering citizens, reducing poverty and promoting inclusive growth.
For many observers, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s ₦100 million empowerment package and the expansion of the National Community Food Bank Programme represent more than just interventions; they symbolize a growing commitment to ensuring that the dividends of governance reach those who need them most. By placing women, traders, families and vulnerable communities at the center of development efforts, the First Lady continues to reinforce the message that meaningful national progress begins with empowering people at the grassroots.
