The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has provided financial grants, farm inputs and implements to 531 farmers in Zamfara State and 400 others in Delta State.
The grants were held simultaneously yesterday in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, and in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
The First Lady was represented by the wife of Zamfara State governor, Hajjiya Huriyya Lawal, and the wife of Delta State governor, Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, during the events.
The governors’ wives are the states’ coordinators of RHI.
At the event to round off the RHI programme yesterday in Gusau, Mrs. Tinubu said: “The noble initiative has lit a torch of empowerment that will continue to shine across our homes, schools, and communities.
“In the past few days, we have seen true transformation of women and youths who engage in extensive training in modern sack farming, fish farming, goat farming, poultry, amongst others.
“These are not just skills, but keys to economic independence and food security for the nation.”
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The First Lady said 25 women who stood out during the programme were empowered with N200,000 cash grant each and essential gardening tools.
“Also, 35 passionate women have been selected to champion this initiative across our communities, thereby creating a ripple effect of growth, food production, and sustainability,” she said.
The First Lady added that the initiative had also commissioned 160 students from eight schools across the state into the Young Farmers Club.
At the event in Asaba, Mrs. Tinubu reiterated the crucial role of agriculture in achieving food security, creating employment, and driving economic growth.
Speaking through Mrs. Oborevwori, the First Lady expressed delight at seeing women, young farmers in secondary schools, youths, and cooperative groups becoming actively involved in farming.
“Gardening, a time-honored tradition, sustained our forefathers and can still benefit families today,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu noted that RHI’s “Every Home a Garden” initiative underscored the importance of home gardening as a tool to reduce economic hardship for families.
“The beauty of it is that it’s not limited by gender or age. Growing your own food helps promote healthier eating, improves your diet, and provides fresh, nutritious produce.
“You will agree with me that it is possible for us to grow our own food. The earth is blessed for our sake. When you plant, it germinates and yields a great harvest.
“The essence of this initiative is to bring us back on track and increase food production across the nation. This is about feeding your family and sharing with your neighbours,” she added.
Mrs. Tinubu said four categories of beneficiaries, including women, youths, secondary school students, and farming groups, were selected to receive various farm implements and seedlings as part of the initiative.
“I hope this gesture encourages you. I urge you to give your best as you return to your farms daily.
“I have my own garden behind my house, and soon I will begin harvesting corn, vegetables and other crops. On a lighter note, I am happy to share with you.
“For those who haven’t started, please give it a thought. Let’s join hands to grow more food and move from scarcity to abundance.”