In a significant move to empower women, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has pledged to advance the development of the girl-child and bolster the capacity of women to ensure their social and economic well-being.


The Governor made the pledge on Tuesday at the flag-off of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a Women Agricultural Support Programme for the North Central Geo-Political Zone, spearheaded by Nigeria's First Lady, Sen. Remi Tinubu, at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.


Governor Mutfwang highlighted the integral role of women in agriculture, Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs), and food security, pointing out that the state  government is focused on championing women's causes and unlocking their full potential.


He xpressed gratitude to the First Lady for her visionary initiative, especially in supporting women in agriculture, and urged the beneficiaries to judiciously utilize the funds to support their families and contribute to societal development.


The First Lady, represented by Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, Wife of the Chief of Staff to the President,  said the Tinubu's administration recognizes agriculture as crucial to sustainable development and food security.


She announced that the RHI is dedicated to aiding women farmers across the nation, in line with the national agricultural agenda to fortify the sector.


While presenting cheques of N10 million to the wives of the Governors in the North Central Zone, the Wife of the President said 20 women farmers from each state would receive N500,000.


"Today marks a milestone as we support 20 women farmers per state in the North Central Zone with N500,000 each. Consequently, a total of N10 million per state will be entrusted to the First Ladies of Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, who also serve as RHI State Coordinators, for distribution to the beneficiaries in their respective states, as well as FCT" she stated.


Additionally, the RHI Social Investment Programme (RHI-SIP) granted N100,000 to one hundred Persons Living with Disabilities in Plateau State to enhance their businesses.


The First Lady encouraged the beneficiaries to leverage this opportunity to grow their agricultural enterprises, contribute to food production, and inspire future farmers.


In a welcome address, Barr. Helen Mutfwang, the wife of Plateau State Governor, represented by the Commissioner of Higher Education, Mrs. Kachollom Gan expressed profound appreciation for the First Lady's support, noting that it reflects a deep commitment to empowering women and advancing the agricultural sector.


Gyang Bere 

Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State 

April 17, 2024.