President Tinubu Launches Ambitious Grassroots Development Drive To Empower 1000 Entrepreneurs Across Nigeria’s 8,809 Wards
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched a bold new initiative aimed at driving economic development from the bottom up. The Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, approved by the National Economic Council (NEC), is set to empower communities across Nigeria’s 8,809 wards by supporting local entrepreneurs and boosting grassroots production.
At Thursday’s NEC session held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu secured the endorsement of all 36 state governors for the program. The initiative, developed by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is designed to translate Nigeria’s recent macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in everyday life—with a focus on job creation, poverty reduction, food security, and social protection.
1,000 Local Entrepreneurs per Ward to Be Supported
A core feature of the program is the identification of at least 1,000 economically active individuals in each ward. These individuals will receive tailored support to enhance local manufacturing, small business operations, and agricultural productivity.
The goal is to empower over 8 million Nigerians at the community level—unlocking entrepreneurial potential and stimulating local economies in both urban and rural areas.
“A New Strategy to Reach the People,” Says Governor Uzodinma
Speaking to the press after the meeting, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State emphasized that the initiative represents a strategic shift in how government resources are deployed.
“The President came up with a programme that will fast-track the process of this additional money creating a bigger impact on Nigerians by making sure that it trickles down to the grassroots,” Uzodinma said. “The country is earning more now, and subnational governments are also earning more. It’s time the people felt it directly.”
A special committee—including the Surveyor-General of the Federation and representatives of state governments—will be established to oversee the swift implementation of ward-level projects.
Minister Bagudu: “A Historic Step Toward Inclusive Growth”
Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, described the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme as a historic milestone in Nigeria’s development strategy.
“Having stabilized the macro economy, the next step is to drill down development to the lowest levels,” Bagudu said. “We believe this will generate employment, reduce poverty, enhance food security, and even strengthen social protection mechanisms.”
He also noted that the initiative aligns with Chapter Two of Nigeria’s Constitution, which mandates all levels of government to promote prosperity and foster a self-sustaining economy.
Why It Matters
The Renewed Hope initiative arrives at a time when Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook is improving, thanks to higher revenue flows and reforms under Tinubu’s administration. However, these gains have not yet been widely felt at the local level.
By directing resources and support to Nigeria’s smallest administrative units—the wards—this program aims to close that gap. It positions communities, not just cities or states, at the center of Nigeria’s economic recovery.
If successfully implemented, the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme could become one of the largest grassroots empowerment efforts in Africa, serving as a model for inclusive development across the continent.
