In a significant move to uplift women and boost economic growth, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Thursday launched the second phase of the Fintiri Business Wallet, an ambitious women empowerment initiative aimed at lifting 10,000 women out of poverty in Adamawa State. The program, part of the government’s 8-point agenda, will see each beneficiary receive a grant of N50,000 to start or expand their businesses.
Speaking at the launch event at Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola, Governor Fintiri emphasized the critical role women play in economic development, noting that empowering women is a powerful catalyst for broader social and economic growth. He highlighted that the initiative has already empowered 10,000 women with similar grants, and the second phase will continue to build on this success.
Beyond financial support, the governor announced that the government would provide business training and support services to the beneficiaries, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and grow their enterprises.
In addition to the empowerment scheme, Governor Fintiri also unveiled a major improvement in public transportation. The state government has procured 31 new buses to alleviate transportation challenges faced by residents, particularly students. These buses have been distributed across various tertiary institutions and selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) to enhance accessibility and ease mobility.
The Governor detailed the distribution plan, with Adamawa State University Mubi and Modibbo Adamawa University Yola each receiving four 74-capacity luxury buses. Other institutions, including the College of Education Hong, Federal College of Education Yola, and Adamawa State Polytechnic, were also allocated buses. Nine of the buses have been handed over to the Adamawa Transport Company for operation within the state capital and other LGAs.
Furthermore, Governor Fintiri announced plans to recruit more civil servants, in line with the recent resolution on the new minimum wage, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to job creation and improved public service delivery.
The Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Balthiya Wesley, praised the empowerment initiative, describing it as “Fintiri magic.” He commended the Governor’s dedication to improving the well-being of citizens through strategic programs that empower youth and women. Wesley also applauded the Director-General of the Adamawa State Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA), Dr. Michael Zira Wadaragwo, for the successful execution of the empowerment program.
Commissioner for Entrepreneurship Development, Hammajumba Gatugel, emphasized the importance of micro-businesses in driving economic growth, particularly in rural communities. He noted that the beneficiaries were selected from various women’s groups across the state, ensuring a broad and inclusive reach.
Hon. Sulaiman Ahmed Gangkuba, the State ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Toungo LGA, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Local Government Area Chairmen. He thanked Governor Fintiri for the transparent selection process that ensured beneficiaries were chosen from all LGAs, reflecting the government’s commitment to equity and fairness.
Dr. Michael Zira Wadaragwo revealed that over 20,000 youths and women have been trained in various empowerment programs under PAWECA. He announced plans to collaborate with the private sector to further reduce the financial burden on the government and create additional employment opportunities for graduates skilled in trades such as welding and carpentry, which are crucial for public infrastructure projects.
Representing the 10,000 women beneficiaries, Doris Danladi of CAN Women Wing, Maimuna Aliyu of FOMWAN, and Hadiza Yahaya of the community of people living with disabilities, expressed their heartfelt thanks to Governor Fintiri. They assured him that the funds would be utilized to start and expand their businesses, contributing to the economic upliftment of their communities.
This dual approach to empowering women and enhancing public infrastructure underscores Governor Fintiri’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in Adamawa State, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.