First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has marked the World Disability Day by disbursing N64 million in grants to support individuals living with disabilities in Sokoto State. The event, representing the broader Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), was attended by the wife of the state governor, Fatima Aliyu, who stood in for Mrs. Tinubu.
The disbursement included N50 million designated for beneficiaries in Sokoto, part of a nationwide effort to empower 250 persons with disabilities in each state. Each beneficiary will receive N200,000, totaling 9,500 beneficiaries and a budget of N1.9 billion across the country.
Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the initiative aims to foster long-term economic independence for Nigerians with disabilities. Over the past two years, RHI has reportedly supported more than 100,000 women, small business owners, and petty traders, including individuals with disabilities, through direct financial grants.
She also assured that the initiative extends beyond financial support, encompassing various areas such as agriculture, education, and health services. The First Lady commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his ongoing support for persons with disabilities in the state, highlighting plans to allocate an additional N2 million each to seven disability associations in Sokoto to enhance their empowerment programs.
In addition, Umar Muhammad Sabon Birni, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Disability Matters, announced that monthly stipends for persons with disabilities were increased from N6,500 to N10,000, currently benefiting 6,679 registered individuals. The governor has also established Ramadan feeding centers for persons with disabilities.
The event featured a para-soccer match, where Mrs. Tinubu’s team triumphed over Governor Aliyu’s team, further promoting the spirit of community and support for individuals with disabilities. Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar praised the governor for his commitment to people-oriented projects and pledged the Sultanate Council’s continued support.
