320 Women Receives capitalization Grant From Delta State Government

By: Elizabeth Ide

The Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (DEMSMEDA), in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, has launched the ‘MORE Cap-Up’ Empowerment Programme to support 320 rural women in the creative industry across the state’s 25 local government areas.

The official flag-off ceremony, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in Asaba, marked another milestone in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on inclusive economic growth, women empowerment, and poverty reduction.

Each beneficiary received a ₦150,000 business grant and participated in training sessions on financial literacy and business management all aimed at expanding their ventures and promoting sustainable livelihoods in rural communities.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary/CEO of DEMSMEDA, Dr. Godwin Adolor, FCIB, said the initiative was designed to accelerate grassroots development and strengthen Delta State’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy, which accounts for nearly 46% of the national GDP.

According to him, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) contribute over 80% of employment opportunities and remain a vital source of income for millions of Nigerians.

“This empowerment is more than a token; it is seed capital for your success. We are creating an enabling environment for women to access finance, markets, and support services that will help them grow,” Dr. Adolor stated.

He added that beneficiaries were equipped with the knowledge and financial discipline needed to manage their businesses effectively, and he commended the First Lady for her consistent support of women across the state.

In her remarks, the Wife of the Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, described the programme as a reflection of her husband’s visionary leadership and compassion for women.

“It gives me great joy to launch this empowerment programme designed to support women in the creative industry, especially those in rural areas,” she said.
“Today, 320 women have been carefully selected to receive business grants and training in financial literacy — not just to start, but to sustain and grow their businesses.”

She urged beneficiaries to make wise use of the funds, describing the grants as an investment in their dreams, families, and communities.

Deaconess Oborevwori further commended DEMSMEDA for its dedication to profiling, training, and empowering women across Delta State, assuring that her husband’s administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and inclusive development.

Also speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly represented by Bridget Anyafulu, lauded the initiative, describing it as a strategic economic investment aligned with the state government’s vision of governance that works for the people. He urged beneficiaries to use the grants responsibly to create jobs and inspire others within their communities.

The Chairman of DEMSMEDA’s Board, Mr. Henry Sakpra, also thanked Deaconess Oborevwori for her partnership, describing the agency as a springboard for sustainable women empowerment. He pledged continuous collaboration with relevant ministries and stakeholders to reach more beneficiaries in the coming months.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ese Magini expressed gratitude to the First Lady and DEMSMEDA, promising to utilize the funds judiciously to expand their businesses and create employment within their localities.