Communications infrastructure company IHS Nigeria has strengthened its commitment to inclusive community development by donating business support equipment to persons with disabilities in the Karonmajiji community of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The intervention forms part of the company’s Project Empower initiative, which is focused on promoting sustainable livelihoods and advancing economic inclusion within underserved communities.

The equipment was presented to beneficiaries during a ceremony held in the community on Monday, July 27. The initiative followed a community needs assessment that identified the need to support active traders with productive assets instead of cash grants. According to the company, the approach is intended to strengthen existing businesses, encourage accountability and deliver long-term economic benefits.

Speaking during the presentation, Director, Sustainability, IHS Nigeria, Titilope Oguntuga, said the programme reflects the company’s dedication to advancing inclusive development by providing persons with disabilities with practical resources that enable them to build sustainable livelihoods.

Rather than offering temporary financial assistance, she explained, IHS Nigeria adopted an asset-based intervention by donating 50 pieces of business support equipment, including sewing machines, freezers, generators and hairdressing kits, to selected beneficiaries.

According to her, the initiative is aimed at creating lasting economic value by encouraging entrepreneurship, promoting self-reliance and improving household incomes. She added that the programme also contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

In his opening remarks, the Chief of the Karonmajiji Disabled Community, Alhaji Sulaiman Muhammed Katsina, represented by the Secretary of the Community, Alhaji Mohammed Dantani, praised IHS Nigeria for its continued commitment to empowering persons with disabilities through practical and sustainable interventions.

He described the initiative as a demonstration of genuine partnership with the community and expressed appreciation for the company’s ongoing engagement with the Association. He noted that the donated equipment represents a significant investment in improving the livelihoods of persons with disabilities and will create meaningful economic opportunities for beneficiaries and their families.

The ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, government representatives, leaders and members of the Karonmajiji Disabled Community Association, implementing partners, including Field of Skills and Dreams Vocational Technical and Entrepreneurship (FSD VTE) Training Institute, as well as other community stakeholders. Their participation reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing inclusion and sustainable community development.

Through Project Empower, IHS Nigeria continues to drive sustainable development by fostering strategic partnerships that promote economic inclusion, strengthen community resilience and expand opportunities for underserved communities.

Source: Nigeria Communications Week