FIRSTBANK, ROTARY EMPOWER 102 BENEFICIARIES WITH N20M START-UP KITS

FIRSTBANK, ROTARY EMPOWER 102 BENEFICIARIES WITH N20M START-UP KITS

In a significant display of commitment to community empowerment, the First Bank of Nigeria Limited, in collaboration with Rotary Club International, District 9110, recently distributed N20 million worth of start-up kits to 102 beneficiaries in Lagos. This initiative aimed to provide essential tools and resources across various trades to empower individuals and drive economic growth within the region.

The distribution of start-up kits encompassed a diverse range of equipment, including grinding machines, plumbing kits, deep freezers, sewing machines, generators, gas burners and cylinders, as well as kits for barbers and hairdressers, among others. This broad spectrum of tools reflects a strategic approach to cater to the diverse needs of the beneficiaries and equip them for success in their chosen fields.

Beneficiaries of this community intervention project were carefully selected from the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria, representing a harmonious blend of diversity and inclusivity from Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states. This deliberate inclusion underscores the commitment to empowering individuals from various backgrounds and fostering unity through economic opportunities.

During the presentation ceremony, Mrs. Helen Ihonre, Unit Head of Other SME Products e-Business and Retail at FirstBank, provided valuable insights on financial management and economic discipline. She emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate records, accessing low-interest loans to support business growth, and prioritizing savings from the inception of their businesses. Her guidance on prudent financial practices serves as a cornerstone for the beneficiaries to build sustainable businesses and secure their financial future.

Rotary District 9110 Governor, Ifeyinwa Ejezie, highlighted the significance of economic empowerment in Rotary’s initiatives and emphasized the need for collaboration with the government to effectively reach grassroots communities. The partnership between Rotary and FirstBank exemplifies a shared commitment to community development and underscores the pivotal role of organizations in driving positive change and sustainable impact.

Bukola Bakare, Rotary International District Governor Nominee Designate, shed light on the fundraising process and challenges faced in executing the project. She emphasized that all items distributed to the beneficiaries were provided free of charge, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Rotary and FirstBank. The selection of beneficiaries based on a needs analysis from diverse ethnic groups underscores a thoughtful and inclusive approach towards empowerment.

FirstBank’s significant support as a major sponsor for the project was acknowledged, highlighting their commitment to driving social impact and empowering communities. The collaboration between Rotary, FirstBank, and government entities such as the Lagos State Universal Basic Education and the Lagos State Agency for Mass Education reflects a strong public-private partnership focused on enhancing community development and fostering economic empowerment.

The testimonials from beneficiaries, such as Adekunmi Adeniyi, underscore the tangible impact of this initiative on their respective trades and crafts. Their expressions of gratitude towards Rotary International and FirstBank serve as a testament to the transformative power of community empowerment initiatives.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of FirstBank and Rotary in empowering 102 beneficiaries with start-up kits worth N20 million exemplify a shared commitment to driving sustainable development and fostering economic empowerment within communities. This initiative not only equips individuals with the tools for success but also underscores the importance of partnerships in creating lasting positive change. As these beneficiaries embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, they carry with them the support, guidance, and resources necessary to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.