In a move aimed at promoting grassroots economic development and empowering women in trade, Honourable Abdulsamad Dasuki, member representing Tambuwal-Kebbe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has launched a N10 million grant disbursement programme for women entrepreneurs in his constituency.
The initiative, which formally kicked off over the weekend in Sokoto, seeks to provide direct financial support to women already engaged in small-scale business activities.
At least 400 women drawn from various wards across Tambuwal and Kebbe local government areas are set to benefit from the first phase of the programme.
Speaking during the launch, Hon. Dasuki—represented by his wife, Hajiya Jamila Wada Dasuki—described the empowerment programme as part of his broader vision to stimulate local enterprise, reduce poverty, and promote financial independence among women.
“This is the first disbursement. It reflects what we can afford at the moment, but as the saying goes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. We hope this gives people the confidence to support this cause,” she said.
The beneficiaries, selected from each ward across the constituency, include women already involved in various forms of trade such as tailoring, spice production, goat herding, and small-scale agriculture.
The focus, according to Mrs. Dasuki, is on supporting women who are already demonstrating entrepreneurial initiative and resilience.
“These women are doing noble and laudable things. They are not just starting out—they are already entrepreneurs in their own right. Empowering them will create a ripple effect that will touch entire communities.”
She emphasized that the initiative is not only about giving out money but about acknowledging women as key stakeholders in the socioeconomic development of the region.
“An empowered woman is not a threat to a man. She is a complement. I sit here today not in my own capacity, but to support a man with a vision—a vision large enough to accommodate all of these people.”
Although the initial disbursement targets women in urban and semi-urban areas of the constituency, Hajiya Dasuki assured that subsequent phases will extend the reach of the programme to more remote and rural communities, including Romo Sarki, Sanyinna, and other underserved districts.
“This is a symbolic distribution. Charity begins at home. We are starting from our familiar ground, but we will expand. Representatives from every ward are here today.”
She also urged the recipients to make judicious use of the funds, adding that the goal is to see long-term impact through business growth, job creation, and increased household income.
“We hope to return and be proud of what we see. From here, we can only go higher, not lower.”
The programme was received with enthusiasm by community leaders, women’s groups, and local government representatives, many of whom commended the lawmaker for addressing the economic challenges facing women at the grassroots level.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude, noting that the funds would significantly enhance their capacity to expand their businesses and support their families.
“This support is timely. I run a small tailoring shop and have been hoping to buy a second machine. This grant will help me achieve that,” said Amina Abdullahi, one of the beneficiaries from Tambuwal.
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