csrreporters 
A total of 1,000 women in Anambra State have received business grants to support or expand their small-scale ventures under the Renewed Hope Initiative in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF).
The disbursement was part of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme, launched officially in Anambra on Wednesday at The Light House, Awka. The programme targets 500 women in each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the goal of boosting financial independence and economic participation among women.
Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State Governor, represented the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the launch and oversaw the distribution of funds. In her remarks, she emphasized that the grants are not loans but seed capital to help women grow sustainable businesses.
“It is not a loan; it is a renewed seed that enables you to invest in your business to make it more sustainable,” Mrs. Soludo stated, delivering Senator Tinubu’s message.
“I thank the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which donated ₦1 billion for 500 women in each of the 36 states of the country.”
Mrs. Soludo also announced a personal contribution from the Anambra State Government to double the reach of the initiative within the state.
“To support our First Lady, I am also presenting ₦50,000 each to an additional 500 women, bringing the total number of beneficiaries in Anambra to 1,000,” she added.
Encouraging the recipients to approach the grants with seriousness, she urged them to manage the funds wisely:
“See this grant as a seed that can turn into millions if well invested. Starting a business is about good management and skills.”
The State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, also addressed the beneficiaries, warning them against diverting the funds for non-productive use.
“This money is not for ‘aso ebi’ or frivolous spending. It is seed money meant to grow your business and support your craft.”
She praised the First Lady’s ongoing commitment to women’s welfare and economic empowerment:
“This is not the first time we are witnessing this show of love from Her Excellency, knowing well that with this grant, many women are assured of three square meals.”
The Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme is fully grant-based, designed to provide startup or recapitalisation funding to micro and small-scale women-led businesses. The initiative aims to enhance economic resilience at the grassroots level and promote self-sufficiency among Nigerian women.
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