By Bavoriat Clara
Nigeria has taken a significant step toward strengthening disability inclusion and economic empowerment as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, in collaboration with the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), officially launched the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities.
The event, held in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, brought together senior government officials, military leaders, development partners, and beneficiaries for what many described as an inspiring and transformative milestone.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities globally recognized every December seeks to promote understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. In Nigeria, this year’s commemoration carried a renewed sense of purpose as the First Lady and DEPOWA provided tangible support to hundreds of Nigerians living with disabilities, including disabled veterans of the Armed Forces.
In her keynote remarks, the First Lady emphasized that the Renewed Hope Initiative was founded on the principle that development must be inclusive, far-reaching, and equitable. She stated that the programme aims to strengthen the economic capacity of persons with disabilities, enabling them to participate meaningfully in national growth.
“Every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability, deserves the opportunity to contribute to our nation’s progress,” she said. “This initiative is a reaffirmation of our collective duty to build a society where no one is left behind. When we support persons with disabilities, we are not offering charity we are investing in human potential.”
Her message, delivered with characteristic warmth and clarity, set the tone for a ceremony focused not only on celebration but also on accountability and sustainable impact.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, the Director of Veteran Affairs Division, Defence Headquarters, Major General Oluwafemi Williams in his goodwill message underscored the importance of inclusive empowerment especially for injured service members and veterans who sustained life-altering disabilities in the line of duty.
He praised the First Lady for championing a cause that aligns with the Armed Forces’ longstanding commitment to the welfare of its personnel.
“This programme reflects our belief that those who sacrificed for national peace must never be forgotten,” he said. “Many of our veterans carry physical and emotional scars from their service. Empowering them is not an act of benevolence it is a responsibility, one we must honour consistently.”
Major General Williams noted that the initiative has extended financial support to 420 persons with disabilities nationwide, including a significant number of disabled military personnel. He described the event as “compassion in action,” reinforcing the Armed Forces’ dedication to creating equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
“No nation can achieve genuine progress without ensuring equal participation for persons with disabilities,” he added. “The Armed Forces remain fully committed to fostering a society where every citizen can thrive, regardless of physical condition.”
Speaking on behalf of DEPOWA, its President, Mrs. Marna Oluyede, applauded the First Lady’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups, particularly families within the defence and policing community.
She reaffirmed DEPOWA’s readiness to sustain partnership with the First Lady on empowerment programmes that promote dignity, self-reliance, and social stability.
“Your vision for a compassionate, inclusive Nigeria inspires us,” she told the First Lady. “DEPOWA stands firmly with you in advancing initiatives that restore hope and create sustainable livelihoods for our service families and persons with disabilities.”
In delivering the vote of thanks, the wife of the Chief of Army Staff extended profound appreciation to the First Lady for her deep compassion and sustained support for injured service members.
“Your motherly commitment continues to restore dignity and bring hope to our disabled veterans,” she said. “The empowerment given today will make a lasting difference in the lives of our service families.”
Her remarks echoed the sentiments of many in attendance, highlighting the critical role of compassion and leadership in national development.
One of the most emotional moments of the event came when Inspector Orinya John, a beneficiary of the empowerment programme, stood to share his testimony. His story moved the audience to tears.
He recounted how a fatal accident in May 2023 claimed one of his legs and changed the course of his life. The aftermath was devastating: he lost his home and was forced to live in his small shop with his wife and children. The months that followed were filled with uncertainty, repeated pleas for help, and fears of being forgotten.
Through tears, Inspector John shared how overwhelmed he felt when he received a call informing him he had been selected for the empowerment programme.
“All I have to say is that where the spirit does not give up, hope will always return,” he said, voice trembling. “This support has shown me that I am not forgotten. May God bless everyone who remembers people like us.”
His emotional testimony served as a powerful reminder of the real human impact behind policies and initiatives—lives restored, families supported, and dignity renewed.
The 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration concluded with renewed commitment from government officials, military leaders, civil society organisations, and beneficiaries to build a society that truly embraces inclusion.
Stakeholders agreed that Nigeria’s journey toward inclusivity must continue through sustained policy support, economic empowerment, and social protection for persons with disabilities.
As the First Lady and DEPOWA continue to champion the cause, many believe the Renewed Hope Initiative has set a strong precedent for future national programmes.
In the words of one participant: “Today, Nigeria has once again affirmed that disability is not inability—and that every Nigerian deserves the chance to live with dignity, stability, and hope.”
The event ended with applause, gratitude, and a collective belief that the empowerment of persons with disabilities is not just an obligation it is a pathway to a stronger, more united nation.
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