₦airaland Forum

Remi Tinubu grants N50,000 to 37,000 women petty traders

She flagged off the disbursement of the grant in Asaba, the Delta State capital, where 1,000 petty traders benefited from the scheme.

Nigeria’s First Lady and chair of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Oluremi Tinubu, has flagged off the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme for women petty traders nationwide with the disbursement of N50,000 business recapitalisation grant to 37,000 beneficiaries across the country.

She flagged off the disbursement of the grant in Asaba, thecapital, where 1,000 petty traders benefited from the scheme.

As one of the interventions under the economic empowerment programme of RHI, the grant, she says, is targeted at helping petty traders overcome some of their business challenges, create more jobs and expand the contributions of the informal sector to the national economy.

“As we are all aware of the challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), especially the petty traders, who form the backbone of our local economies, these challenges, however, have not deterred the strength of our women. I salute you all and celebrate your courage and resilience that keep you going, to put food on the table for your families.

Today, through the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme, we are providing 1,000 pre-selected women petty traders per state with a grant of N50,000 each to recapitalize and grow their businesses. A total of One Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N1,850,000,000.00) will be disbursed to 37,000 women petty traders across the nation.”

While identifying economic empowerment as a core objective that the Renewed Hope Initiative has consistently delivered on for both women and youth across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria to support the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the First Lady noted that empowering women economically is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one.

“We recognise that empowering women economically is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one. When women thrive, their families thrive, and by extension, our communities and nation prosper. We recognise that empowering women economically is not just a moral imperative but a strategic one. When women thrive, their families thrive, and by extension, our communities and nation prosper.

“To the 1000 women petty traders who are the beneficiaries of this programme, I say, “You are the heart of our local economies, the foundation of our communities, and the unsung heroes of our nation.

“You have shown incredible resilience in overcoming countless challenges to build your businesses. Today, we celebrate your hard work and determination.”

Applauding the intervention of the First Lady and for choosing the state for the flag-off of the grant, Delta State Governor Sherriff Oborevwori, represented by his wife, Tobore Oborevwori, announced the donation of an additional N50,000.00 grant by his administration to further empower the beneficiaries.

He noted that Mrs Tinubu has demonstrated true motherhood by the various contributions of her Initiative, RHI, especially in the areas of Agriculture, Education, Economic Empowerment and Social Investment.

The RHI Economic Empowerment for 1000 Women Petty Traders per state held simultaneously nationwide. Each beneficiary received N50,000 as a capitalisation grant from the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI.

SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

ADO EKITI | RHI Grant | Friday, 15th August 2025

It was a great honour to represent the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, @SenRemiTinubu, CON, at the official flag-off of the Renewed Hope Initiative/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme in Ekiti State.

Through this remarkable initiative, we witnessed hope in action as 500 hardworking women in Ekiti received ₦50,000 each in non-refundable grants to support and grow their businesses. This is more than just financial assistance it is an investment in families, communities, and our collective future.

I am deeply grateful to Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the Tony Elumelu Foundation for their commitment to empowering women and for strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in Ekiti.

The joy and appreciation expressed by the beneficiaries reflect the resilience and gratitude of the average Ekiti woman, and reassure us that these funds will be judiciously utilized.

Special thanks to our amiable and visionary Governor, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his unwavering support for women in Ekiti State, as well as to other top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, for gracing the event with their presence.

Govs, Dangote commit N66bn to Oluremi Tinubu’s food bank

By Stephen Angbulu
April 3, 2026

The National Community Food Bank Programme received pledges totalling over N66bn on Thursday at its launch and inauguration of the Board of Trustees at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, made the announcement during his keynote address at the event hosted by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

The Aliko Dangote Foundation led private sector contributions with a N20bn in-kind commitment over five years, followed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s pledge of N10bn over the same period.

The Emeka Offor Foundation pledged N500m upfront, while anonymous friends of the First Lady contributed $500,000 (approximately N750m at current exchange rates).

Pate announced that President Bola Tinubu approved a special intervention of N17bn through the Social Action Fund to support the programme.

“His Excellency, Mr President, has already approved the special intervention of N17bn through the Social Action Fund that will procure using the community-based procurement platform in each of the wards of our country, using a simplified procurement mechanism to buy locally,” Pate stated.

The minister also revealed that if all 36 state governors contribute the proposed N500m each, an additional N18bn would be added to the fund, bringing the total potential to over N66bn.

“We’ve pleaded with their excellencies, the executive governors of our 36 states, if they can also match what the Federal Government will do, because the spending will be local, will be in wards and local governments.

“If every state contributes just N500m, that will right there and then match what the Federal Government is putting on the table,” he said.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, pledged to confer with fellow governors on the counterpart funding.

“The NGF stands ready to work closely with the Federal Government. I’ll confer with my colleagues…we’ll present a counterpart fund that will closely align with what the Federal Government is donating,” AbdulRazaq stated.

Meanwhile, Managing Director and CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou, announced the N20bn commitment, calling on the entire organised private sector to actively support the programme.

“Aliko Dangote Foundation will commit N20bn in-kind support over the next five years on the provision of fortified and nutritious food products,” Youssoufou said, tying the initiative to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Sofia Mbakwe, representing NNPC Limited’s Group Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, pledged N10bn over five years.

“This ceremony stands as a powerful testament of purposeful leadership by Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. NNPC Limited is committing a starting sum of N10bn to be disbursed over the five-year period,” Mbakwe stated.

Chidioke James, representing Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, announced the N500m immediate contribution.

“Today is not just about launching a fund. It is about launching hope. No society can truly prosper while hunger persists. We are very proud to stand with the mother of the nation, the First Lady,” James said.

Pate emphasised that the programme comes at a critical moment in Nigeria’s national journey under President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

“Central to this vision is a simple but powerful truth: health does not begin in hospitals alone. It begins in our homes, in our communities, and it starts with adequate nutrition.

“It is not only a necessity politically, but it’s a moral imperative that we ensure that no Nigerian child goes to bed hungry,” the minister stated.

He noted that malnutrition remains one of the most serious public health challenges facing Nigeria, contributing significantly to under-five mortality and limiting growth.

The National Community Food Bank Programme is designed to establish community-based food banks in every Local Government Area, linked to Basic Health Care Provision Fund-supported Primary Health Care centres in partnership with the Bank of Agriculture.

The programme will provide nutritious, locally sourced foods using a voucher system to malnourished children under six years, pregnant and lactating women, orphans and vulnerable children, and households at the highest nutritional and economic risk.

Pate affirmed that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will support implementation directly through the ministry and the Primary Health Care Development Agency, leveraging Nigeria’s extensive network of primary health care facilities.

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, represented by Hamisu Mohammed, offered grassroots endorsement and full partnership, describing the initiative as “a signature legacy project.”

He said, “This initiative comes at a critical time for food insecurity and rising cost of living. Local government fully appreciates grassroots-driven solutions.”

The event was attended by members of the National Assembly, ministers, traditional rulers, including representatives of the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife, development partners, and civil society organisations.

The National Health Fellows also presented a memento to President Tinubu through the First Lady.

The Community Food Bank Trust Fund will serve as the capital engine behind the programme, with the Bank of Agriculture serving as the Managing Director.

Renewed Hope Initiative donor-funded, says First Lady

By Stephen Angbulu
November 7, 2024

The First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, said private donors and corporate partners are funding the Renewed Hope Initiative and its projects.

Mrs Tinubu said this at he State House, Abuja, while speaking to journalists after a meeting with wives of state governors and other state representatives who are state and regional coordinators of the RHI.

She said several queries from various quarters necessitated the disclosure.

“I know people are always saying, where do I get the billions from? I’m going to address that. We are an NGO; people give us money.

“Like the food bank we are doing, we have two companies; BUA is one of them. The other one wants to stay anonymous. They gave us a truckload of food, and Mrs Shettima handles that. We go from state to state. We also have covered maybe seven states, and BUA is joining in to cover the 36 states; if it is one truck per state, within under two years, we should be able to finish. So, I’m excited that BUA, too, keyed into that,” the First Lady said.

Tinubu also revealed that the RHI will unveil the winner of the Every-Home-a-Garden competition by December, saying three finalists have emerged.

The competition aims to encourage Nigerians, especially women, to adopt the practice of cottage farming as the winner goes home with the grand prize of ₦20m.

She said, “We have the unveiling of every home-a-garden competition. So very soon, in December, we are ready to announce the winner; we’ve shortlisted three.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security says it has allocated approximately ₦68m to each state to support four key agriculture-focused initiatives under the First Lady’s RHI. It totals ₦2.52bn.

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, who disclosed this after the meeting, said the funding will be divided across the four specific projects within the RHI’s agricultural support pillar: training and empowerment of women in agriculture, support for young farmers, the Every-Home-a-Garden” programme, and the revitalisation of the Young Farmers Club.

Each project aims to foster sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security across the nation.

Abdullahi said, “We are partnering with the office of the First Lady under her pet project, the Renewed Hope Initiative, to deliver meaningful agricultural support across all states through their first ladies.

“This collaboration allows us to leverage her platform to reach communities and boost agricultural participation at a grassroots level.”

He outlined the projects, starting with the training and empowerment of women in agriculture, which will focus on enhancing women’s skills in farming and food processing to improve food security and nutritional standards.

The programme will also assist young male and female farmers to establish themselves in agricultural activities.

He said the Every-Home-a-Garden initiative would encourage families to cultivate small gardens and help households contribute to the national food basket, reduce pressure on market supplies, and increase food access within homes.

The initiative also targets the Young Farmers Club.

“This club will be supported to encourage younger generations to see agriculture as a viable career path, not just as a livelihood but as a sustainable contribution to national food security,” Abdullahi explained.

The minister also said that the funds would be disbursed to state coordinators, with a clear schedule outlining the budget for each project.

State-level agriculture officers from the Federal Ministry will collaborate closely with the first ladies’ offices to oversee project implementation and ensure efficient use of resources.

Addressing the timeframe for deployment, Abdullahi indicated that the Ministry was nearing readiness, saying, “We’re 95 per cent prepared.

“Coordinators will work with designated desk officers in each state. Once account details from the first ladies’ offices are received, we’ll begin disbursing funds.”

Abdullahi emphasised that this initiative is not a one-off but part of a broader commitment to mainstream sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.

He noted that home-based farming initiatives like Every-Home-a-Garden could boost household-level food security and potentially create income opportunities through surplus produce.

“This is not just a quick solution; we intend to make this a sustainable and institutionalised approach within the Ministry of Agriculture.

“We are reforming and expanding our support to ensure this programme endures and that every home can be part of Nigeria’s food security solution”, he stated.

PRESS RELEASE

FIRST LADY OLUREMI TINUBU DECLARES NO CHILD SHOULD GO HUNGRY AS RHI EXPANDS FOOD BANKS, NUTRITION SUPPORT

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has said children must not be allowed to go hungry, as she unveiled fresh steps by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to expand National Food Banks, nutrition support and community interventions for vulnerable families across the country.

She stated this at the 2nd Quarter meeting with wives of state governors on Wednesday at the State House Abuja, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the initiative is designed to tackle child malnutrition from the grassroots and ensure that pregnant women and nursing mothers also get support.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu disclosed that following the Inauguration of the National Food Bank Program in Abuja February 17, 2026 and its subsequent flag-off for the North – East Geopolitical Zone on April 27, 2026 the next zone would be the North East and South West respectively.

She charged the wives of governors to look out continually for these vulnerable children in their various States.

“Our children are not supposed to be going hungry”.

“No matter what, when you see a child that is malnourished in your state, you have to take them and make sure that they are properly cared for”.

She explained that the food banks being rolled out under RHI across the 6 geopolitical zones would be located very close to primary health care centres to make it easier for families to access nutrition support alongside medical care.

“These food banks are built next to the primary health care centres so that the ones that need supplement can get their supplements, lactating mothers and pregnant women too will be given food items from the food bank”.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the project is being strengthened through support from donors and partner agencies, including the Bank of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dangote and the National Population Commission.

She said the support would help build and sustain the food banks across the states.
“What we have done so far is to come up with the strategy which for me is a very good example”.

“It is now left for the first ladies to take it upon themselves and make sure that the states have more food banks because our children are not supposed to be going hungry.”

She said the efforts are part of a broader social investment agenda under RHI, which also covers education, scholarships, economic empowerment and environmental campaigns. According to her, the programmes are meant to create lasting impact beyond the current administration.

“What we are doing in this administration is to make sure that even generations unborn would benefit”.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu also urged state governments and their spouses to do more to identify and support malnourished children early.

On the wider nutrition strategy, she stressed the importance of linking food support with health interventions for women and children.

The First Lady further called for more donations to the National Food Bank Drive which is domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the RHI Green Nigeria Challenge, scholarships, storybooks distribution and other initiatives are still on course, but insisted that the fight against hunger among children must remain central.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu reiterated that the reforms being pursued by President Bola Tinubu’s administration are aimed at building “lasting legacies” that would benefit generations yet unborn, even as she urged Nigerians to adjust to the changing realities of the economy and mode of doing business.

Speaking to State House Correspondents after the meeting, she described her role as well as that of governors wives as “only performing a supportive role.”

“I’m the housewife here and I’m only playing complimentary roles and supportive roles. And that’s what we, all these women here (governors’ wives), have been doing.”

She said the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) was created to help states multiply whatever support they receive and translate it into practical benefits for citizens.

“As mothers in the nation, all I do is just coordinate them (wives of governors). That’s why we brought RHI on board, so that every state whatever trickles down, they are supposed to multiply it”.

The First Lady said the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s policies, including subsidy removal, had been difficult but necessary.

“What we are doing in this administration is to make sure that even generations unborn would benefit”.

She added that the government is focused on changing the way Nigerians think about work, jobs and enterprise. Now, everyone has to know the way of doing business is different”.

The First Lady said many young people still expect government jobs, even though opportunities are now more likely to come through ministries, agencies on their digital application platforms.

“We have to inform the youth”.
She urged them to also explore small and medium-scale enterprise opportunities.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu said the government has made notable gains in agriculture, empowerment and social investment.
“We’ve really covered a lot of areas in Agric”.
“Because of food security, even I happen to have a garden… I have a garden that can produce okra that I can also give away. So every time I go there to harvest, I always have to give to my staff.”

She used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians to value local culture and food products.

“We have a very, very proud culture. And I think this is high time we started promoting ourselves and this nation. We have what it takes to do that”.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu said RHI in its 3 years of existence has reached tens of thousands of beneficiaries across different States through grants and support programmes.

SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Wednesday 24th June, 2026

PRESS RELEASE

We are working towards improving the lives of the vulnerable…First Lady Oluremi Tinubu
As RHI Distributes Assorted Food items to vulnerable Groups in Ekiti State

The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has once again assured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing everything it can to improve the lives of the ordinary man.

She pointed out that the various reforms and programs would yield long lasting effects rather than a flash in the pan approach.

The First Lady who was represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima explained that the Food Outreach Programme of the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI under its Social Investment programme is a monthly intervention strategy targeting the vulnerable groups in the society and it is to complement the efforts of government.

While distributing the many food items to the various vulnerable groups at the Government House Ado Ekiti the First Lady of Nigeria added that the RHI inline with the objectives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration is working towards meeting the needs of the people.

She implored the beneficiaries not to divert the items to the market but use it in their household.

Wife of the Ekiti State Governor Dr Olayemi Oyebanji while appreciating the Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s support to the state especially in the areas of agriculture where farmers received farming implements , women empowerment and scholarship.

She also urged the beneficiaries to look into embracing agriculture especially in their homes so that they can they provide food for their families and neighbours.

The RHI Food Outreach Program was launched in FCT Abuja in December 2023 and have covered some states already impacting on the lives of people with disabilities, women and the youth

The programme which is supported by a well meaning Industrialist provides assorted food items.

SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Thursday 31st October, 2024

NITDA, RHI Celebrate Success of Women ICT Empowerment Programme

By Kinyiose Nwabuokei


The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) held a closing ceremony in Abuja to celebrate the completion of the Women’s ICT Empowerment Programme. The event marked a significant milestone in advancing digital literacy and economic inclusion for women across Nigeria.

The Nigerian First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON expressed her pride in the Programme’s progress and reach, saying that “I am delighted to join you all today at the closing ceremony of the Women ICT Training Empowerment Programme. This collaboration has grown, now reaching 40 women from each geopolitical zone, with a total of 252 women trained in essential digital skills. These participants are now ready to transform their communities as digital literacy champions.”

She commended the NITDA’s management and its Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE on bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and ensuring women’s active participation in the digital era.

Tinubu noted, “This partnership under the Economic Empowerment scope of the Renewed Hope Initiative aims to leverage technology to advance gender equity and drive national development,” adding that the Program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a tech-enabled Nigeria.

According to her Nigeria is taking a significant leap forward in empowering its women and girls to succeed in the digital landscape. She added, “This milestone is a crucial step toward creating a path for Nigerian women and girls to actively participate and flourish in the digital world and this is an affirmation of the current administration to providing equal access to opportunities nationwide.

While emphasising the administration’s commitment to fostering a technology-enabled, equitable future for all Nigerians, Senator Tinubu urged the women to make maximum use of the training. She said, “I encourage each of you to use the skills, training, and resources you have gained here to advance your careers and businesses, and to inspire those around you. The journey may not be straightforward, but with time, action, and support, you can achieve remarkable things”.

In his remarks, Inuwa, the NITDA’s Director General highlighted the impact of digital skills training in Nigeria’s broader socio-economic landscape.

He said, “Today marks a remarkable milestone in our journey to make Nigeria a digitally empowered nation. Empowering women and narrowing the gender gap could potentially increase Nigeria’s GDP by 20 percent, this is an estimated addition of $100 billion to our economy.”

Inuwa noted that NITDA’s ambitious digital literacy target is aimed at achieving 95 percent digital literacy by 2030. He said incorporating digital skills into the education system and expanding partnerships with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to reach communities across Nigeria are some of the initiatives the Agency is adopting to achieve the target.

“Our target is to train 33 million Nigerians over the next three years, creating a future where women, young people, and every Nigerian can thrive in the digital economy,” he explained.

“Whether you are creating software, engaging in graphic design, or managing a business, these skills will help you tap into the digital economy. This initiative is not just about skills; it is about creating access, opportunity, and inclusion,” Inuwa stated.

He further highlighted the significance of women’s empowerment in achieving societal transformation. “As the saying goes, ‘If you empower a man, you empower an individual but if you empower a woman, you empower a society. “Each of you is now equipped to not only pursue your own growth but also to lift others within your communities. This is what we mean by becoming digital literacy champions,” he remarked.

“When you go back, mentor others and carry everyone along. “The skills you have gained will not only open up career and business opportunities but also inspire others within your communities,” he advised.

Inuwa recalled that the programme is in line with the President’s dream of creating a future where every Nigerian has access to learn, grow, and thrive; “and where every woman, every girl, and every young person can have an opportunity to create and share the Nigeria of our dream.”

Remi Tinubu’s initiative mobilises N100bn in three years

By Stephen Angbulu
April 20, 2026

The Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has cumulatively mobilised and disbursed over N100bn in the past three years, according to a review of its interventions from 2023 to April 2026.

The figure, which includes direct disbursements, donations and multi-year pledges, rose from N9.4bn recorded over its first 16 months and N12.9bn reported in mid-2025.

The donations include pledged interventions and direct cash payouts targeting women, displaced persons, orphans of fallen military heroes, senior citizens and Nigerians in diaspora communities.

Launched shortly after the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, the initiative began with targeted welfare interventions, including N250,000 grants to 57 flood-affected families in Abuja’s TradeMore Estate, amounting to N14.25m.

In July 2023, it donated N500m to victims of insecurity in Maiduguri and N427.75m to widows and orphans of fallen servicemen, with each of the 1,709 beneficiaries receiving N250,000.

In November 2023, the First Lady launched the “Every Home a Garden” contest, offering a N20m prize to first-time female farmers nationwide to bolster domestic food production.

On August 26, 2023, Mrs Tinubu announced 43 scholarships worth N4m each over four academic sessions.

The RHI, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency, launched a digital literacy initiative that trained 35 women, each receiving N100,000 and a laptop.

The initiative also extended support to Nigerians in the diaspora, donating $100,000 (about N150m at the time) towards building a hospital for over 40,000 Nigerians residing in Sierra Leone.

By September 2023, the RHI committed N500m to 500 families displaced by communal clashes in Mangu, Plateau State, and,in December 2023, disbursed N950m to retirees and senior citizens in the police and military.

In 2024, the programme expanded with the rollout of an Elderly Support Scheme across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, allocating N50m per state and distributing N200,000 grants to 250 elderly citizens aged 65 and above, totalling N1.9bn.

It also committed N1bn to tuberculosis control in March 2024, distributed 22,800 bags of rice, valued at N95m, to Christian communities in the 19 northern states for Christmas, and donated N100m to victims of a tanker explosion in Niger State.

These interventions brought cumulative disbursements to N9.4bn by April 2025.

In July 2025, the First Lady donated N1bn to victims of violence in Plateau State, followed in August by another N1bn donation to victims of floods, banditry, and other disasters in Niger State, alongside relief materials, including 2,000 bags of rice, 16,000 wrappers, and 100 pairs of shoes.

During the same period, the initiative partnered with the Tony Elumelu Foundation to provide N50,000 non-refundable grants to 18,500 women entrepreneurs nationwide, amounting to about N925m.

In Ondo State alone, 500 women benefited from the scheme in August 2025.

By mid-2025, cumulative disbursements had risen to N12.9bn.

In September 2025, the First Lady launched the Oluremi@65 Education Fund to support the completion of the National Library in Abuja. The fund generated N25.52bn by December 31, 2025.

In October 2025, the initiative introduced the “Flow with Confidence” programme, procuring sanitary products worth N2.55bn from Uniglory Nigeria Limited for distribution to 370,000 schoolgirls nationwide.

Further disbursements in December 2025 included another N1.9bn under the Elderly Support Scheme and N1.9bn for persons with disabilities, with N50m allocated to each state and shared among 250 beneficiaries.

On April 2, 2026, the initiative launched the National Community Food Bank Programme in Abuja, securing pledges totalling over N66bn.

The commitments included a N20bn in-kind pledge over five years from the Aliko Dangote Foundation, N10bn from NNPC Limited, and N17bn from the Federal Government through the Social Action Fund.

Additional contributions included N500m from the Emeka Offor Foundation, $500,000 from anonymous donors, and a N500m personal pledge from the First Lady.

State governors were also urged to contribute N500m each.

The scale of the initiative has drawn public attention, particularly as the office of the First Lady is not constitutionally recognised and does not receive statutory funding.

Spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Tanko Yunusa, said the donations lacked clear budgetary appropriation.

While noting the humanitarian nature of the interventions, Yunusa argued that charity did not negate the need for public accountability.

He said, “We are not opposed to her humanitarian services. They are good and welcome. However, she cannot be spending public funds without proper appropriation in the national budget.”

Responding to concerns, Mrs Tinubu said the initiative operates as a non-governmental organisation funded through donations.

“I know people are always saying, ‘Where do I get the billions from?’ We are an NGO; people give us money,” she said at a meeting with governors’ wives at the Presidential Villa in November 2024.

At the meeting, she named the BUA Group among her several donors, most of whom, she said, prefer to remain anonymous.

“Like the food bank we are doing, we have two companies; BUA is one of them; the other one wants to stay anonymous; maybe they want people to trouble you. Those were the people we started with.

“They give us a truckload of food, and Mrs Shettima handles that. We go from state to state.

“We have also covered maybe seven states, and BUA is joining in to cover the 36 states. If it is one truck per state, within two years, we should be able to finish. So I’m really excited that BUA too keyed into that,” she stated.

Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady on Media, Mrs Busola Kukoyi, had earlier argued that the Renewed Hope Initiative has reputable Nigerians on its board who ensure the judicious use of its donations.

Kukoyi said, “Many of the donations are under her Renewed Hope Initiative, and on the source of funding, there is a governing board for the initiative where we have reputable men and women from all over the country.

“Also, there are friends of the Renewed Hope Initiative who believe in the course of what she is doing. Well-meaning Nigerians are on the governing board, and of course, it is in the public space.

“Reputable businessmen and women of means, with credibility, have been the ones donating to the Renewed Hope Initiative.”

pdppower:
We are still in the process of defending the indefensible. Anyway, I also want to start my akara and kulikuli business too.

Renewed Hope Initiative beneficiaries get starter-packs in Abia

By : Gordi Udeaja, Umuahia
Date: 11 March 2025

As Governor’s wife highlights benefits of home garden.

The Wife of the Abia State’s Governor, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has kick-started the distribution of Starter-Packs to beneficiaries of the Agricultural Support and Training programme Initiative, under the Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) programme.

This is coming after the completion of training for the first batch, comprising 75 Women and Youths from the Abia Central Zone.

The comprehensive training covered organic fertiliser production, animal feed production, rice production, pest control, best farming techniques, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which were all facilitated by qualified experts.

While presenting the packs, comprising hoes, shovels, and wheelbarrows, among others, at the premises of Umuahia North Council, Mrs Otti described the initiative as one that embodies unwavering commitment to empowering women and young people in agriculture, which aligns with the nation’s agenda to strengthen the agricultural sector and enhance food security.

Mrs Otti told the beneficiaries to succeed in agriculture as they have been provided with the tools to enhance food production sufficiency, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the growth of the local economy. “The starter- packs we are distributing today are more than just tools and equipment; as they represent hope, opportunity, and empowerment.”

She commended Mrs Tinubu’s vision in driving the programme under the Renewed Hope Initiative, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, adding that Mrs Tinubu’s passion for sustainable agricultural landscapes that empower women and youths is truly inspiring.

The Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in the state, Mr Aloysius Mba, who represented the Minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, lauded Mrs Otti’s commitment towards implementing the lofty project in the state, noting that the initiative extends to all the states of the federation through the offices of wives of the Governors.

Similarly, the Desk Officer at the Abia State Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Amarachi Anyim commended Mrs Tinubu and Otti for the intervention, tasking the beneficiaries to put the tools into appropriate use to achieve maximum productivity and desired results.

Highlighting her ‘Every Home a Garden Initiative,’ targeted at ensuring food availability in every home, Mrs Otti explained that home gardens offer numerous benefits, including fresh produce, relaxation, stress relief, and opportunities for education, community building, and economic empowerment.

“I have seen firsthand the positive impact that home gardens can have on families and communities, which ranges from providing a sustainable source of food to fostering a sense of community and cooperation with the power to transform lives.”

She, therefore, urged them to maximise the opportunity to make a positive impact in their communities by applying the knowledge and skills they have acquired, to drive innovation, increase productivity, and ensure food security for that state.

First Lady’s Initiative Awards Scholarships to Students

Timothy Choji
September 9, 2025

The Renewed Hope Initiative, a pet project of Nigeria’s First Lady, has disbursed one million naira each to 47 students in higher institutions across the country.

The support, given under the National Scholarship Programme of the Initiative, also included brand new laptops to aid their studies. The beneficiaries, who all maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0, are drawn from diverse disciplines including public administration, botany, business administration, chemistry education, agricultural economics, and animal production and health, among others.

In her remarks at the event, the wife of the president, Oluremi Tinubu, said the support must be sustained to enable indigent students to achieve meaningful education.

“This is a scheme that we have to continue; this is not about politics; it is about people’s lives. Just like in the past when I gave out scholarships, I want to ask you what you also add to the table? You can grow and you can also look for extra things that you can do that can raise money for you and will not hinder your studies,” Mrs. Tinubu said.

She added, “We have given you two years of grace and some of you have two more years to complete your studies, so we have a lot to do, so we pray that the President will have a second term so that we continue,” Mrs. Tinubu said.

Minister of Education Olatunji Alausa commended the First Lady’s commitment to education and highlighted the government’s broader interventions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“Our First Lady wants me to talk about the scholarship opportunities available to millions of folks like you out there. This is part of our benevolence commitment to education… In the last two years, the President gave out 12,434 bursary awards amounting to about N10 billion to students in key sectors including medicine and education,” Alausa said.

He continued: “We have given about N4 billion worth of scholarships to about 8,535 students in the last two years alone… The scholarship award now includes N750,000 annually for those studying sciences in STEM and postgraduate education. You can apply through the Ministry of Education’s website portal,” Alausa disclosed

On the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, he explained,“Over 500,000 students across the country have benefited from the loan fund, with about N100 billion disbursed. You don’t pay back until after you graduate, finish NYSC, and get a job, and even then, only a maximum of 10% of your salary,” Alausa explained.

He further noted, “Fifty-five per cent of the 47 scholars today are in STEM fields such as medicine, nursing, engineering, animal science, and food science. That’s where we want to focus a lot of our emphasis,” Alausa said.

Wife of Imo State Governor and National Secretary of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Chioma Uzodinmma, also praised the programme’s consistency.

“We congratulate the first tranche awarded in 2023, followed by the second in September 2024. Scholars who maintained a GPA of 3.0 and above remain eligible. Today’s 47 beneficiaries each receive N1 million annually plus a brand new laptop. We wish you success in your academic session,” Uzodinmma said.

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Abdullahi, described the scholarship as transformative.

“This is a life-changing package provided by the First Lady,” Abdullahi said.

The Renewed Hope Initiative’s scholarship underscores Nigeria’s drive to invest in its youth, strengthen STEM capacity, and position the country as a continental leader in education and innovation.

franchasng:
Mr. Naptu, Tinubu suppose don remember you like Reno O-mockery with an appointment. I don't know why he doesnt recognize you his staunch supporters on nairaland, from yarimo to madridguy to helinues to Ngeneukwenu and co, you guys have done more than Rhino O-mockery na and deserve a national appointment from Tinubu and his family enterprise for being one of their strongest supporters despite their glaring failures



Anyway, its not too late until it is late, so keep pushing bro, I am sure yours is on the way

naptu2:
Here's another one. No intelligent contribution to the thread, just some weird nonsense about his appointment.

franchasng:
Bra I am routing for you and you know it, you and other diehard supporters of the glaring failed Tinubu regime here deserve some recognition and appointment like Rhino O-mockery, na where person de work him de chop because you guys can't be working your asses off while some baboons on Twitter like O-mockery, Bwala and co keep reaping alone, its unfair to even we your nairaland political friendnemies

Fuckyoumod:
All this fabrications, propaganda, falsehood and nonsense ends in frying of Akara and selling of kuli-kuli.

Shame on you and your kuli-kuli and akara renewed hope agenda for Nigerians.

naptu2:
Again, more nonsense.

Which useless routing out. If I want to support Tinubu, I will do it with my full chest and there ain't a damn thing that you can do about it.

Who cares about your worth less opinion??

The fact is that you cannot make a sensible post about the topic. You simply lack the capacity to do so.

naptu2:
They don't have the brain power to make sensible contributions, so they try to derail threads with fights.