The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has commended the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her commitment to empowering vulnerable groups and promoting social inclusion through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
Mahmoud gave the commendation on Saturday at Karon Majigi in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), during the empowerment programme for 1,000 petty traders drawn from across the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT).
The programme, organised by the Office of the First Lady under the Renewed Hope Initiative, provided financial support and business materials to the beneficiaries to strengthen their small-scale enterprises and improve their livelihoods.
According to the minister, the initiative reflects President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic empowerment, poverty reduction, and inclusive development for all Nigerians, including persons living with disabilities.
She said the empowerment exercise demonstrates a deliberate effort by the federal government to ensure that vulnerable citizens are not left behind in national development.
“Empowering persons with disabilities is not merely a charitable gesture but a strategic investment in human capital and sustainable national development,” Mahmoud said.
She praised the First Lady for what she described as her compassion, visionary leadership, and consistent humanitarian interventions aimed at improving the welfare of women, youths, and vulnerable groups across the country.
Mahmoud reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to policies that promote accessibility, equality, and full participation of persons with disabilities in governance and economic activities.
She also assured that the administration would continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to build a more inclusive society where every citizen can contribute meaningfully to national development.
“The FCT Administration will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to build an inclusive society where every citizen, regardless of physical ability, can realise their full potential,” she said.
The minister urged beneficiaries to make effective use of the empowerment support to grow their businesses and improve their economic independence.
Earlier, former FCT APC Women Leader, Mrs Hailmary Aipoh, also praised the First Lady for her generosity and consistent support for women, families, and vulnerable Nigerians, expressing hope that the intervention would boost the beneficiaries’ businesses.
