By Lanre Oloyede
The Renewed Hope National Youth Tour is steadily expanding its impact nationwide, with its latest stop in Owerri drawing participation from government officials, community stakeholders, and beneficiaries focused on advancing opportunities for women, young people, and persons with disabilities.
At the event, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Mohammed Abba, said the initiative reflects the administration’s broader vision of inclusive development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the tour serves as a platform to connect with citizens, raise awareness, and deliver targeted empowerment programmes, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, youths, and persons living with disabilities.
According to him, the programme underscores the President’s commitment to national unity and inclusion by bringing together Nigerians from different backgrounds, faiths, and regions to benefit from government-driven opportunities.
Abba highlighted that many beneficiaries received practical support items, including starter packs, laptops, motorised wheelchairs, and other assistive devices aimed at enhancing productivity and improving quality of life.
He added that beyond material support, financial assistance was also provided to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to help them expand their ventures, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.
He noted that persons with disabilities represent a substantial segment of Nigeria’s population, estimating that over 35 million Nigerians live with disabilities, a large proportion of whom are young people.
Abba added that the establishment of his office is a clear indication of the administration’s resolve to promote representation and ensure that persons with disabilities are not excluded from national development efforts.
Describing the Renewed Hope Agenda as people-centred, he said it focuses on addressing critical issues such as poverty, unemployment, and social inclusion, while creating pathways for empowerment across all segments of society.
He also pointed to ongoing government interventions, including youth-focused programmes, student loan schemes, and economic reforms, as part of efforts to drive sustainable growth and national development.
While acknowledging existing socio-economic challenges, Abba expressed confidence in the administration’s direction, noting that ongoing reforms are laying the groundwork for a more resilient economy and expanded opportunities for Nigerians.
He further praised the City Boy Movement for its role in grassroots mobilisation and support for empowerment initiatives across the country.
The tour, which commenced in the South-East, is expected to continue across other geopolitical zones, with organisers reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that women, youths, and persons with disabilities remain at the forefront of its programmes.
Abba reiterated that the Renewed Hope Agenda is geared towards building a more inclusive society where every Nigerian, regardless of background or physical condition, can access opportunities and contribute meaningfully to national progress.
