By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO – In a significant move toward economic inclusion and gender empowerment, Honourable Abdulsamad Dasuki, Member of the House of Representatives for Tambuwal-Kebbe Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, on Sunday launched a N10 million trade empowerment grant aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in his constituency.

The initiative, flagged off in Dogondaji, is set to uplift over 400 women in its first phase, providing direct financial support to those already engaged in small and micro-scale enterprises. The primary objective is to foster economic self-reliance among women and bolster grassroots development.

Speaking at the launch, the lawmaker was represented by his wife, Hajiya Jamila Wada Dasuki, who highlighted the strategic focus of the program. She noted that this initial disbursement is reflective of current affordability, quoting the popular saying, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” She expressed optimism that this effort would inspire others to support women’s economic empowerment.

She explained that the beneficiaries were selected from every ward in the constituency, focusing on women already active in various trades such as tailoring, goat herding, spice production, and agriculture. According to her, these women are not just starting out—they are existing entrepreneurs whose empowerment would create a ripple effect of growth within their communities.

Mrs. Dasuki further emphasized that the program extends beyond financial aid, describing it as part of a broader vision to elevate women as key agents of community development. She stated:

“An empowered woman is not a threat to a man but rather a complement.”

Speaking on behalf of her husband, she declared support for his inclusive vision—one large enough to embrace everyone in the constituency.

Additionally, Mrs. Dasuki noted that while the current phase is centered on women in urban areas, future phases will extend to rural and hard-to-reach locations, such as Romo Sarki and Sanyinna districts. She described the disbursement as symbolic, emphasizing that “charity begins at home.” Starting with familiar communities, she affirmed, does not limit the initiative’s reach, as representatives from every ward were present at the event.

In her closing remarks, she urged the beneficiaries to make wise use of the grants, expressing hope that they would look back with pride at the progress made. She concluded with a powerful statement:

“From here, we can only go lower,” – a phrase expressing optimism for continued advancement and impact.

The program marks a committed step towards inclusive growth and recognizes the transformative role of economically empowered women in driving sustainable development across the Tambuwal-Kebbe Federal Constituency.