The Renewed Hope Initiative, spearheaded by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has distributed ₦10 million to 20 female farmers in Rivers State to enhance agricultural productivity and address food scarcity.
This effort aims to lower food prices and combat the country’s high inflation rate.
Each of the 20 beneficiaries received a ₦500,000 cheque, presented by Lady Valerie Fubara, the wife of the Rivers State Governor, at a ceremony held at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Encouraging the recipients, Mrs. Fubara urged them to utilise the funds to expand their farms, aligning with the First Lady’s vision of agricultural growth.
She acknowledged that while the amount might not cover all their needs, it signifies the compassionate effort of a leader committed to their well-being.
“This is a seed investment in your agricultural ventures, accompanied by the founder’s prayers for your success. Make the most of it,” she advised. She emphasised the importance of prudent use of the funds to ensure increased and improved farm yields in the coming months.
Lady Fubara also announced that, following this initial batch of 20 beneficiaries under the Renewed Hope Initiative Women in Agriculture Support Programme, an additional 80 women will benefit in subsequent phases as planned by the board.
Previously, the Renewed Hope Initiative in Rivers State has launched support for the elderly, distributed exercise books to school children through the Ministry of Education and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and provided various forms of family support.
Additionally, a state resident has been awarded the Belarus RHI International Scholarship, a gesture greatly appreciated by the beneficiaries.
Highlighting the Rivers State Government’s commitment to agriculture, the First Lady noted that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration is reviewing agricultural policies to address sector challenges.
Efforts include reviving State-owned agricultural projects like the Songhai Integrated Farms and encouraging private investment in the sector’s ongoing transformation.
The Women in Agriculture Support Program is the third empowerment initiative following schemes for the elderly and students, since the inauguration of the pet project earlier this year.
