Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives and representative for the Bende Federal Constituency, Rt Hon., has extended a vital lifeline to his constituents through a unique program tailored to support the underprivileged in the Bende community. Named the “Family Support Grant for Rural Dwellers,” this initiative targets the economically vulnerable residents across the constituency’s 13 wards, providing much-needed financial assistance aimed at alleviating hardships.
This strategic intervention, which launched on Friday in Akanu Item, distributed grants to over 1,200 residents. The program’s core goal is to provide monthly financial assistance, aiming to empower beneficiaries to either establish or bolster small businesses that could yield sustainable income for their households.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s Family Support Grant for Rural Dwellers”, A Visionary Initiative
The Family Support Grant for Rural Dwellers marks a pioneering step in providing regular financial aid to rural constituents. Led by Deputy Speaker Kalu, the initiative is structured to operate in monthly phases, ensuring that financial resources reach a rotating set of individuals in need. The launch event saw an initial distribution to over 1,200 recipients, who expressed gratitude for the Deputy Speaker’s commitment to enhancing the livelihood of his people.
Speaking on the motivation behind this initiative, Mr. Emma Trumps Eke, Director General of the Benjamin Benjamin Okezie Kalu Foundation, emphasized the enduring impact of such consistent financial support, stating that the Deputy Speaker’s plan is to conduct multiple phases to cover an expanded number of beneficiaries.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu: Selection Process: Inclusive and Community-Driven
The selection of beneficiaries under the Family Support Grant initiative was conducted with transparency, involving key local stakeholders to ensure fairness. Each of the 13 wards in the constituency saw 80 individuals selected, with the choices guided by input from traditional rulers, community leaders, and political stakeholders. This selection process reinforces the Deputy Speaker’s dedication to inclusivity and community participation.
Eke further elaborated that legislative aides from the Bende Federal Constituency also contributed a portion of their monthly salaries, underscoring the collective commitment to improving rural livelihoods in the face of economic adversity.
Empowering Rural Residents Through Economic Relief
The Family Support Grant is not just an act of charity but an empowering tool designed to stimulate local commerce. Eke highlighted that the financial aid would allow beneficiaries to engage in small-scale trading, which can have a ripple effect across the local economy. With minimal resources, rural residents are expected to invest in trades or agricultural ventures that offer them a sustainable path out of poverty.
The timing of this initiative is especially significant, as economic challenges continue to burden many families in the region. The grant empowers residents to take control of their economic destinies, reducing reliance on external support and promoting self-sufficiency.
Voices of Gratitude from Beneficiaries
The Family Support Grant launch event was punctuated with voices of appreciation and optimism from beneficiaries, who described the relief as a welcome blessing in a difficult economic period. Chief Ihendu John Ogba, one of the grant recipients, expressed profound gratitude, noting his hopes for the Deputy Speaker’s future political aspirations and lauding Kalu’s dedication to his constituency.
Similarly, Mrs. Comfort Chukwu shared her plans to invest her share into her farmland, which she believes will enable her to increase agricultural production. For Chukwu and many others, the grant has opened new avenues to bolster their sources of income.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Strengthening Community Bonds
Women leaders in the community, like Lady Philomena Ikwuegu, have also acknowledged the transformative impact of the Family Support Grant, particularly for female entrepreneurs. According to Lady Philomena, many women were overjoyed to receive support, and the funds are expected to be instrumental in expanding their businesses. Mrs. Mba Ijeoma Precious, a petty trader from Apanu Item, shared that she intends to use the grant to grow her small business, which will directly benefit her family.
The program’s inclusivity, extending aid regardless of political affiliation, has resonated positively among beneficiaries, fostering unity and goodwill within the constituency.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu: Future Prospects for Rural Development in Bende
As the Family Support Grant continues, hopes are high among constituents for further community-driven development projects spearheaded by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu. Through ongoing efforts such as this, Kalu aims to bring tangible change to Bende, enhancing the quality of life for rural residents. His work is gradually paving the way for economic resilience in the constituency, showcasing a model of responsible representation in governance.
The Family Support Grant not only showcases the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s dedication but also inspires the possibility of similar initiatives across Nigeria, as leaders recognize the value of sustainable rural support in the fight against poverty and economic hardship.
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