No fewer than 30 market women trading in Ekpan and along Jakpa Road in Warri, Delta State, have benefitted from financial assistance of ₦500,000 each, provided by the Esther Matthew Tonlagha (EMT) Foundation to help grow and stabilise their small-scale businesses as part of efforts to stimulate grassroots economic development.
The empowerment initiative was carried out as part of activities marking the birthday of the foundation’s founder, Mrs Esther Matthew Tonlagha, who deliberately chose to mark the occasion through humanitarian service instead of personal celebration. The outreach focused on women whose daily trading activities play a critical role in sustaining their families and supporting the local economy.
Beyond the market women intervention, the foundation also offered financial support to 200 individuals living with sickle cell disorder, popularly referred to as sickle cell warriors. Each beneficiary received ₦100,000, amounting to a total disbursement of ₦20 million. The funds were presented at the Central Hospital in Warri during a specially organised programme designed to celebrate, motivate, and uplift children and individuals living with the condition.
Addressing beneficiaries at the event, Mrs Tonlagha expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and the privilege of giving back to society. She stated that celebrating her birthday with vulnerable members of the community brought her deep joy and fulfilment. She urged the sickle cell warriors to remain steadfast in faith, adhere strictly to medical guidance, and maintain discipline in their health routines, emphasising that proper care is essential to their overall wellbeing.
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Mrs Tonlagha further explained that the foundation’s humanitarian initiatives are guided by a commitment to creating sustainable and long-term impact, particularly at the grassroots level. According to her, targeted financial support at the community level can lead to significant improvements in livelihoods, business growth, and health outcomes.
One of the beneficiaries, Onochie Dumebi Elvis, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the EMT Foundation, describing the financial support as both timely and life-changing. He noted that the grant would provide a solid base for expanding his small business and would greatly enhance his confidence and future business plans as a young entrepreneur.
The outreach underscores the increasing importance of private foundations in supporting economic empowerment and social welfare, complementing government efforts to strengthen small businesses and provide relief for individuals and families managing long-term health conditions within local communities.
