The wife of the Kogi governor, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, has empowered over 500 women and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to promote economic independence, dignity and social inclusion.
Ododo launched the empowerment programme, tagged ‘Moving Forward Together’, on Wednesday in Lokoja, targeting a disability-inclusive society across the state.
She stressed inclusivity, saying, “Today, we remind one another that nobody is forgotten in Kogi.”
Ododo thanked the state government and Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, for supporting the initiative.
She said the programme would empower 260 women, support 100 persons with disabilities with business grants, and provide mobility assistance to 260 beneficiaries.
“Under the programme, 260 women will receive N100,000 each, while 100 persons with disabilities will get N200,000 each for businesses,” she said.
She added that 260 other persons with disabilities would receive N50,000 each alongside wheelchairs, crutches, walking sticks, guide canes and elbow crutches.
Gov. Ahmed Ododo, who flagged off the distribution, praised his wife for advancing a disability-inclusive society.
“What we are witnessing today is leadership that must touch the poor, lift the forgotten, and give voice to those society has ignored,” he said.
The governor donated an official vehicle, promised a bus for the Office of Persons with Disabilities Affairs, and approved a 50 per cent tuition waiver for PwDs in state tertiary institutions.
Ododo said the initiative would strengthen economic independence, dignity and social progress for women and persons with disabilities.
The governor and his wife urged beneficiaries to use the support responsibly to improve their livelihoods and contribute to state development.
Coordinator of Ohunene Empowerment Initiative, Mrs Mary Agamalafia, said the organisation was delighted to positively impact communities through the programme.
Earlier, Kogi Executive Secretary for Persons with Disabilities, Mr Yakubu Abdulhakeem, described the intervention as promoting empowerment, participation and improved quality of life.
Abdulhakeem requested further support for PwDs in tertiary institutions and the appointment of a Senior Special Assistant representing disability interests.
A beneficiary, Mr Daniel Arome, Chairman of the Persons with Disabilities Association, Kogi, described the initiative as a historic milestone.
“For the first time, we have received such significant support, bringing tears of joy to our eyes.
“With these mobility aids, we can contribute more effectively to the development of Kogi and Nigeria,” he said.
Arome assured the government of the association’s continued support and appreciation for its commitment to disability welfare. (NAN)
