Bauchi Marks Disability Day, donates N50m to PWDs

By Bashir Hassan Abubakar 

Bauchi State has joined other states across the country to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities with the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative Economic Empowerment Programme.

The event, held at the Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu Square, brought together government officials, security agencies, media organisations and hundreds of beneficiaries.

Representing the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Bauchi State First Lady, Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed, said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive development and the upliftment of vulnerable groups. She announced that 250 persons with disabilities in every state and the FCT will receive ₦200,000 each to support or expand their small businesses.

She explained that the programme is being rolled out simultaneously nationwide, with 9,500 beneficiaries expected to receive support. Each state, including the FCT and relevant associations, will disburse ₦50 million directly to recipients. The First Lady urged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely for long-term growth.

Hajiya Aishatu Bala Mohammed also highlighted other components of the Renewed Hope Initiative, including support for women traders, agricultural empowerment, welfare packages for families of fallen security personnel, and food outreaches across 22 states and IDP communities. She commended Governor Bala Mohammed for creating a supportive environment for social welfare programmes in the state.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the gesture. Some described the support as unprecedented, while leaders of the disability community urged recipients to use the funds to build sustainable livelihoods. 

The event ended with a renewed commitment to promoting inclusion and ensuring that no one is left behind.