Yola: The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has extended a helping hand to the victims of the recent floods in Yola South Local Government Area, Adamawa, by donating five million Naira along with various essential items. The gesture was revealed during a condolences visit made by the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, to the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the First Lady, represented by Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, emphasized that the donations aim to assist both the flood victims and the families who have lost loved ones. Among the donated items were 1,000 pieces of Ankara fabric, six cartons of shea butter lotion, four cartons of shea butter oil, five cartons of petroleum jelly, two cartons of shea butter cream, 13 cartons of hand sanitizer, and additional supplies.
Tinubu also announced the distribution of food items through RHI’s Outreach Programme to support people living with disabilities and vulnerable groups in Adamawa. The programme has already reached 15 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with Bayelsa state identified as the next beneficiary.
The First Lady acknowledged the contributions of partners, including the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) and an anonymous donor, for their unwavering support and dedication. Hajiya Lami Fintiri, the First Lady of Adamawa, who received the donations for distribution, expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the relief it brings to flood victims.
Represented by Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, Deputy Governor of Adamawa, Fintiri provided an update on the flood’s impact, stating that 29 lives have been lost and thousands displaced. She commended the federal government’s efforts and assured that the donations will be distributed appropriately.
Mr. Ubon Udoh, Managing Director and CEO of ASR Africa, remarked on the partnership with RHI, emphasizing their commitment to poverty reduction and uplifting vulnerable communities. ASR Africa dedicates 100 million dollars annually to such efforts, with a focus on both Nigeria and the broader African continent.
Additionally, the First Lady announced a collaboration with the Tony Elumelu Foundation to empower 18,500 women nationwide through the RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme. The initiative aims to support 500 women-owned small businesses with grants of N50,000 each, with simultaneous inaugurations in Adamawa and Niger states.
The financial support was symbolically presented to beneficiaries in Adamawa, marking the commencement of the empowerment programme, which will soon extend to other states and the FCT.