MAHMOUD APPLAUDS FIRST LADY AS 1,000 PETTY TRADERS RECEIVE EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT IN ABUJA
By: Austine Elemue
The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has applauded the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her steadfast commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and advancing social inclusion across the country.
Speaking at the official empowerment of 1,000 petty traders in Karon Majigi in Abuja Municipal Area Council on Saturday, Mahmoud described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,, which prioritizes the welfare, inclusion, and economic empowerment of all Nigerians.
The empowerment programme, organized by the Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), provided financial support and business tools to 1,000 petty traders drawn from across the Federal Capital Territory.
The intervention is part of the First Lady’s ongoing commitment to promoting economic inclusion, alleviating poverty, and strengthening the livelihoods of women, vulnerable groups, and small-scale entrepreneurs, in line with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
On the occasion, the Minister noted that the programme reflects the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that persons living with disabilities are actively integrated into the nation’s socio-economic development and provided with opportunities to achieve self-reliance.
She commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her compassion, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes, stating that her interventions continue to restore hope, dignity, and economic opportunities to vulnerable citizens across the country.
According to her, “empowering persons with disabilities is not merely a charitable gesture but a strategic investment in human capital and sustainable national development.”
Mahmoud reaffirmed the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s commitment to promoting policies and programmes that guarantee accessibility, equal opportunities, and the full participation of persons with disabilities in governance and development.
“The FCT Administration will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to build an inclusive society where every citizen, regardless of physical ability, can realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national progress,” she said.
The Minister also urged beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to maximize the opportunities provided to enhance their livelihoods, achieve economic independence, and serve as agents of positive change within their communities.
Mahmoud, on behalf of the FCT Administration, expressed profound appreciation to the First Lady for bringing hope, encouragement, and practical support to the physically challenged community, while praying for God’s continued guidance and strength upon her as she continues her service to humanity and the nation.
Earlier in her remarks, former FCT APC Women Leader, Mrs. Hailmary Aipoh commended the First Lady for her generosity, compassion, and thoughtful initiatives towards women, families, and vulnerable Nigerians.
Aipoh expressed the hope that the empowerment support would catalyse growth, expansion, and greater success in their petty businesses.
