By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Government House in Asaba came alive on Thursday, September 18, as the second edition of the Traders Empowerment Programme delivered fresh economic hope to 1,000 women petty traders across Delta State.
Organised by the Renewed Hope Initiative in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, the event showcased a powerful collaboration between government and private sector aimed at boosting grassroots businesses.
Wife of the Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, flanked by the Deputy Governor’s wife, Ezinne Catherine Onyeme, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to women’s economic advancement. She described women empowerment as “a key driver of growth that strengthens households and communities alike,” urging beneficiaries to treat the ₦50,000 support as seed capital to expand their ventures and stabilize family income.
Nigeria’s First Lady and convener of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also lauded the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s ₦1 billion donation to the programme, calling it “a landmark investment in building the nation’s economy and fortifying families.” She pledged that future editions will extend to persons with special needs to ensure inclusivity.
Beneficiaries ranged from petty traders, farmer, to unskilled women and local entrepreneurs, reflecting the initiative’s broad reach.
Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Empowerment, Chief (Mrs.) Evelyn Amirah, summed up the spirit of the day: “This is not just about cash; it’s a long-term investment in the resilience of our families and communities.”
With music, testimonies, and gratitude filling the air, the programme underscored a growing consensus—empowered women mean stronger families and a more vibrant Delta economy.