Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori Empowers 50 Uwheru Traders Through “You Matter” Initiative

Fifty petty traders from Uwheru community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State have received financial empowerment through the “You Matter Charity Foundation Market Outreach”, an initiative of Deaconess (Mrs.) Tobore Oborevwori, wife of the Governor of Delta State.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Mrs. Oborevwori said the empowerment programme, which will be implemented across the state, is aimed at supporting small-scale businesses, particularly women and low-income traders, to grow and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic development.

Mrs. Oborevwori, who is the Founder and Chairperson of the You Matter Charity Foundation, described Delta’s micro-economy and petty trading sector as crucial to the government’s development vision under her husband’s MORE Agenda — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.

Represented by the Ughelli North Coordinator of the Foundation and Wife of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Evangelist (Mrs.) Joy Mariere, the governor’s wife reaffirmed her commitment to empowering small businesses and improving livelihoods at the grassroots level.

Mrs. Oborevwori recalled that before the present administration assumed office, she had personally embarked on a market-to-market campaign in Uwheru to mobilize support for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s election, noting that the latest empowerment is her way of giving back to the community.

She urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely to expand their businesses, achieve financial independence, and uplift their families.

“This empowerment is not just a gift; it’s an opportunity to grow. Please use it responsibly to expand your trade and become self-reliant,” she said.

Deaconess Oborevwori also encouraged traders who have not yet obtained their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to take advantage of the ongoing registration exercise, emphasizing that it is free and essential for accessing future government programmes.

She recalled that during the first phase of the empowerment scheme last year, some residents doubted its authenticity but later realized its genuine intent. She therefore urged Deltans to trust in the MORE Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure, social welfare, and economic empowerment.

The Delta First Lady announced that subsequent phases of the “You Matter Charity Foundation Market Outreach” will extend to other communities within Ughelli North, including Otowodo, Aghara, Agbarho, Orogun, and Ughelli Main Markets.

She emphasized that the programme is strictly designed for indigent traders and will continue to focus on grassroots economic empowerment.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Christiana Etagbwdavbe expressed appreciation to the Governor’s wife for her compassion and commitment to uplifting the poor.

“We are truly grateful to the First Lady for this life-changing support. The transparent process has restored our trust, and we assure her of our continued support for this administration,” she said.

Of the 50 shortlisted traders, 41 received their empowerment funds during the event, while the remaining nine beneficiaries were advised to contact the Ughelli North Coordinator of the Foundation at a later date for collection.