Anambra First Lady Donates Wheelchairs to Physically Challenged Participants at RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Economic Empowerment

Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo and the beneficiaries of wheelchairs

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has donated wheelchairs to two physically challenged individuals to support their mobility and help sustain their businesses.

The donation was made during the Renowned Hope Initiative (RHI)/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme, held at Light of House, Awka, the state capital.

This economic empowerment initiative is a collaborative project between the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

It aims to assist local women across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in starting or expanding their businesses through small business recapitalization grants.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mrs. Soludo expressed deep empathy for the physically challenged attendees.
She explained her motivation for the donation.
“When I saw some of them and the pain they endure daily, especially those who struggle just to walk 10 to 20 yards, I was deeply moved. It is heartbreaking to see them in that condition. As they entered the hall, I immediately knew we had to provide wheelchairs. While wheelchairs are expensive, they are not beyond our means to provide. Today, with these wheelchairs, these women can move around more easily, manage their businesses more effectively, and become productive members of society.”she said.
Dr. Soludo also advised the beneficiaries of the seed capital to use the funds responsibly and invest them wisely in their businesses.

“It is not the amount of capital that matters, but how well it is managed. This money is not for frivolities, parties, or enjoyment. Start small, be disciplined, and you can grow big. Even with just ₦50,000, you can turn it into millions, if you use it wisely. Over time, you can educate your children, build homes, and improve your livelihood,” she added.

Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, founder of the Healthy Living Initiative, encouraged the women to prioritize their health by consuming natural foods and avoiding processed or canned products.
“Take care of your health. If you don’t, this money might end up being spent on hospital bills. Most illnesses people suffer from are self-inflicted due to poor dietary choices. Exercise regularly, eat clean, and avoid unfamiliar or artificial foods. A backyard garden can provide your family with healthy vegetables. I will ensure seedlings are made available to support you as you leave,” she added.
Dr. Soludo also revealed that while the First Lady of Nigeria had supported 500 women, she personally extended assistance to an additional 500 beneficiaries, bringing the total to 1,000. She further provided each beneficiary with ₦7,000 for transportation, emphasizing that the seed capital should not be used for travel expenses.

“That seed money is strictly for business; do not touch it for anything else,” she warned.

The Anambra State Commissioner for Women, Children, and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, echoed the First Lady’s message, stressing that the funds must be used as business capital,not for luxury or non-essential spending.

“This is an investment in your future and that of your family. Use the money to strengthen your small business, not to buy clothes or spend on non-essentials,” she added.

She also commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife for their continued efforts in uplifting women and vulnerable groups in the state.