A total of 63 women have been empowered with financial support and business resources through the Women Entrepreneurs Empowerment and Growth Initiative, a programme spearheaded by the First Lady of Enugu State in partnership with the Office of the Chairperson, Oji River Local Government.

As part of the initiative, 60 women received ₦100,000 each to support their businesses, while three others were provided with grinding machines to help them establish sustainable livelihoods. The programme underscores the First Lady’s commitment to fostering economic independence and equipping women with the tools to build successful enterprises.

The event commenced with a free medical check-up, reinforcing the importance of prioritising personal health while striving for economic success.

Welcoming participants, the Chairperson of Oji River Local Government and wife of the Executive Chairman, Mrs. Uche Anyaegbudike, expressed gratitude for the initiative, which she described as a transformative opportunity for local women. In his remarks, the Executive Chairman, Mr. Greg Anyaegbudike, emphasised that empowering women contributes to broader societal progress and stability.

The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, applauded the First Lady’s commitment to women’s empowerment and acknowledged the tangible impact of the initiative.

Comrade Egodi Igwe, Managing Director of Custos Care Foundation, introduced the foundation’s mission and reaffirmed its dedication to improving the welfare of women and children.

Dr. Mrs. Olachi Chuks Ronnie, Head of the Enugu Office and Regional Coordinator for Southern Nigeria at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, highlighted the importance of maintaining good health, stressing that a healthy woman is better equipped to achieve her full potential.

Renowned entrepreneur Mrs. Oby Okeke, MD/CEO of AutoEase Services Ltd., shared key business principles, advising participants on consistency, dedication, customer relations, partnerships, and sound financial management as critical factors for business sustainability and growth.

In her keynote address, Her Excellency, the First Lady of Enugu State, reaffirmed her dedication to empowering women across the state. She emphasised that economic independence is crucial for women’s overall well-being and the prosperity of their families and communities. She also encouraged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the support they received, stressing that sustainable businesses are built on discipline, consistency, and hard work.

The Women Entrepreneurs Empowerment and Growth Initiative reflects the Enugu State Government’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic inclusion and equipping women with the tools needed to thrive in business and beyond.