By Zainab Faruk
Bauchi State joined other states across the federation to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities with the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities.
The event, held at Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu Square, Bauchi, drew dignitaries including the wife of the Deputy Speaker, wives of commissioners, representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs, security agencies, media organizations, and hundreds of beneficiaries.
Delivering the keynote address, the Bauchi State First Lady, Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed, who represented the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, said the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and the upliftment of vulnerable groups.
She noted that the RHI Economic Empowerment Programme was being launched simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Associations. According to her, the initiative will provide financial grants of ₦200,000 each to 250 persons with disabilities in every state and the FCT to support and recapitalize their small businesses.
“In total, 9,500 persons with disabilities across Nigeria will benefit from this programme,” she said. “Each state, the FCT, and relevant associations will receive ₦50 million for the disbursement to beneficiaries.”
Quoting disability rights advocate Helen Keller, she emphasized the importance of collective action: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” She encouraged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely to grow sustainable businesses that can support their families and contribute to the economy.
Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed further highlighted other humanitarian efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative, including support for over 100,000 women petty traders, agricultural empowerment projects, welfare support for widows and orphans of fallen security personnel, and monthly food outreach which has reached 22 states, the FCT, and several IDP communities.
She commended the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, for creating an enabling environment for social welfare programmes, assuring that the state will continue to partner with national initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable citizens.
Beneficiaries Express Joy and Appreciation
Beneficiaries interviewed expressed deep gratitude to the First Lady of Nigeria and the Bauchi State First Lady for their commitment to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.
Bala Bagalewu said the gesture was unprecedented in Bauchi State.
“Allah bless the First Lady and the wife of our governor. We have never received support like this before,” he said.
Hauwa’u Shehu, another beneficiary who received ₦200,000, said the support came at the right time.
“This is our special day, and we are grateful that our needs were recognized. We thank the First Lady and the wife of the governor for ensuring transparent distribution,” she stated.
Tata Mohammed, a leader of persons with disabilities in the state, described the programme as historic.
“I advise my fellow beneficiaries to invest this money wisely. This is an opportunity to build a better future and leave the habit of begging behind,” he urged.
A Renewed Call for Inclusion
The event concluded with reaffirmations of commitment to building a Nigeria where no one is left behind.
“Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities. God bless Bauchi State and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed declared on behalf of Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
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