The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), led by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, has introduced a N25 million recapitalisation grant aimed at supporting 500 women entrepreneurs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the launch event in Abuja, the RHI Coordinator for the FCT, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, explained that the funding is part of the RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme. She noted that the initiative is designed to strengthen small businesses and promote economic inclusion for women across Nigeria.
Benjamins-Laniyi, who also serves as the pioneer Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, announced that each of the 500 beneficiaries in the FCT would receive a grant of N50,000, bringing the total disbursement to N25 million.
She praised the Tony Elumelu Foundation for its substantial one-billion-naira donation to the initiative, which will support 18,500 women nationwide — 500 from each of the 36 states and the FCT.
“Today, I have the privilege of presenting N50,000 each to some of the pre-selected 500 beneficiaries here in the FCT. This support is a testament to the power of collaboration and generosity. I hope it inspires more people to join in uplifting women entrepreneurs,” she said.
She emphasized that the programme is targeted at women traders and small-scale business owners who work tirelessly to support their families and communities. “What we are offering is not a loan, but a grant — a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalise and grow your businesses,” she added.
Benjamins-Laniyi reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, to ensuring the success of the RHI programmes in the territory.
Also speaking at the event, Hajia Salamatu Jubril, FCT Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), commended the First Lady and Benjamins-Laniyi for their dedication to empowering women economically.
Similarly, Hajia Hadiza Umar, Leader of the National Council for Women’s Societies (NCWS) FCT Chapter, applauded the initiative, describing it as a bold and inclusive step to support widows, youths, and vulnerable groups across the six area councils.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Angela Elube, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating that the support would significantly enhance her business capacity and improve her livelihood.