In a significant move towards uplifting women in agriculture and supporting individuals living with disabilities, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has inaugurated the Renewed Hope Initiative program in the South-West region.
During a gathering at the cultural center in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Mrs. Tinubu announced substantial financial support for women farmers across the region. Twenty women farmers from each of the South-West states – Ogun, Lagos, Oyo, Ekiti, Osun, and Ondo – will receive a grant of N500,000 each. Additionally, 100 people with disabilities in each state will be provided with N100,000 each to bolster their existing businesses.
“Mrs. Tinubu asked the beneficiaries of this initiative to utilize the funds effectively towards ensuring food sufficiency and security, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized, underlining the importance of the program in supporting women’s development.
Senator Tinubu further revealed plans for collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to empower farmers in the region. The initiative aims to prioritize young female farmers, with 75% of beneficiaries being women and 25% young male farmers. These individuals will undergo specialized training and receive support to enhance their agricultural ventures.
Echoing the sentiment of empowering women in agriculture, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun highlighted the success of existing schemes such as the Oko’owo Dapo program, which has already assisted over 50,000 women entrepreneurs. Governor Abiodun emphasized the state’s commitment to reducing maternal and child mortality rates and promoting the welfare of women through various initiatives.
Bamidele Abiodun, the First Lady of Ogun State and coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative in the state, expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu for spearheading efforts to support women in agriculture. She highlighted the significance of empowering women in driving agricultural innovation and improving the sector’s value chain.
Tamunominini Makinde, the South-West Zonal Coordinator for the Renewed Hope Initiative, emphasized the positive impact of the support program on women in agriculture. She encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the assistance effectively, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the agriculture sector in their respective states.
The Renewed Hope Initiative program symbolizes a collective effort towards uplifting women in agriculture and promoting inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. With a strong commitment from Senator Tinubu and support from various stakeholders, the initiative aims to foster sustainable agricultural practices and economic empowerment for women across the South-West region.