About 1,378 rural women, including widows, single mothers, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, have received food items and cash support from the CHAYAH Hope Foundation.
The empowerment programme, held at the Kanke LGA headquarters, was spearheaded by Mrs. Martina Nentawe Yilwatda, founder of the foundation and wife of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
Beneficiaries were selected from all wards in the local government to ensure wide coverage and fairness. Speaking at the event, Mrs. Yilwatda said the intervention aligns with the foundation’s mission of restoring hope to vulnerable populations through welfare packages, skills acquisition, education, healthcare, advocacy, economic empowerment, counselling, and emotional support.
She emphasised that the initiative targets women and children in rural communities, stressing that empowering grassroots women is key to building stronger families and resilient local economies. “Rural women remain the backbone of our communities. They deserve structured support to overcome economic hardships and thrive,” she said.
Our correspondent reports that the distribution was conducted transparently and orderly, with security personnel on ground and volunteers managing registration and logistics.
Beneficiaries described the gesture as timely and life-changing amid prevailing economic challenges.
Hajiya Aisha Mustapha, a widow, said the support would feed her children for several days. “This food and money came at the right time. May Almighty Allah bless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, bless Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and bless Dr. Mrs. Martina for thinking of poor women like us,” she prayed emotionally.
Mrs. Naomi Yilgwan, another beneficiary, said the gesture restored her confidence. “We sometimes feel forgotten in the villages, but today proves someone cares. This is more than food, it is love and encouragement. May God strengthen those helping the less privileged,” she said.
Mrs. Cynthia Moses, fighting back tears, added: “I was worried about feeding my children this month. This has lifted a heavy burden. I pray God rewards President Tinubu, Prof. Nentawe, and especially Dr. Martina with long life and wisdom to keep helping the poor.”
Miss Deborah Nungyil, a younger beneficiary, described the day as unforgettable. “This is my first time receiving such help. It gives me hope for better days. I am grateful and will help others when I can,” she said.
Several community leaders also commended the peaceful and inclusive execution of the programme.
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
