AWKA, NIGERIA — The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has empowered 5,000 residents with equipment, tools, and cash to strengthen their economic independence and improve their livelihoods, in one of the largest single empowerment initiatives undertaken by her office.
The empowerment programme, which took place on Thursday at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, saw beneficiaries drawn from the 21 local government areas of the state. The items distributed included sewing machines, grinding machines, hair dryers, generators, wheelbarrows, and other tools of trade, as well as cash grants to support small businesses.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Soludo said the initiative was designed to support vulnerable residents, particularly women, youths, and persons with disabilities, to become self-reliant and to contribute to the economic growth of the state. She said the programme was part of her husband’s administration’s commitment to poverty reduction and inclusive development.
“This empowerment programme is not just about giving out items; it is about giving people the tools they need to build a better future for themselves and their families. We want to support our people to become economically independent and to contribute to the development of our state,” she said.
The First Lady said the beneficiaries were selected through a transparent process, with priority given to those who had demonstrated a genuine need and a willingness to work. She urged them to make good use of the items and to see them as a stepping stone to greater success.
“I want to urge all the beneficiaries to make good use of these items. Do not sell them. Use them to build your businesses and to improve your lives. The government has done its part; now it is your turn to do yours,” she said.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the First Lady for the gesture, describing it as life-changing. Mrs. Ngozi Okeke, a widow who received a sewing machine, said she had been struggling to make ends meet since her husband died. “This sewing machine is a dream come true for me. I can now start my own tailoring business and take care of my children,” she said.
Mr. Chukwudi Eze, a young man who received a generator, said the empowerment would enable him to expand his barbing business. “I have been managing with a small generator that often breaks down. Now, I can serve more customers and make more money. I thank the First Lady for this opportunity,” he said.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, commended the First Lady for her commitment to the empowerment of women and vulnerable groups in the state. She said the ministry would continue to support initiatives that promote economic independence and social inclusion.
“The First Lady has been a champion of women’s empowerment and social development in Anambra State. This programme is another demonstration of her commitment to improving the lives of our people. We will continue to support her efforts,” Obinabo said.
The Anambra State Government said the empowerment programme would be sustained and expanded in the coming months, with more beneficiaries to be reached across the state. It urged other organisations and individuals to support the initiative, noting that the government alone could not address the challenges of poverty and unemployment.
As the beneficiaries returned to their communities with their new tools and cash grants, the mood was one of hope and gratitude. For many, the empowerment programme represented a fresh start and a chance to build a better life. For the First Lady, it was another step in her mission to empower the people of Anambra State and to promote inclusive development.
