Anyaso Disburses ₦20m to Empower 100 Bende Women Traders

Over 100 women petty traders in Bende Federal Constituency have received a financial boost of ₦200,000 each, courtesy of renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, popularly known as “Ofuji.”

The empowerment programme, held on February 6, 2026, saw the distribution of millions of naira to support small-scale female entrepreneurs grappling with the harsh economic climate. The initiative, facilitated through the Chima Anyaso Foundation, is aimed at strengthening grassroots commerce and improving household livelihoods across the constituency.

Representing Dr. Anyaso at the event, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Chima Anyaso Foundation, Ezeogo Emeka Onuoha, said the intervention was a deliberate response to the prevailing economic challenges confronting many families.

“This financial assistance is intended to enhance your businesses and support your families,” Onuoha stated. “We urge every recipient to utilize these funds judiciously to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.”

He added that the gesture complements the developmental strides of the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, noting that the foundation remains committed to supporting efforts that uplift the people of Abia State.

In his remarks, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman in Bende Local Government Area, Chief Ihechi Phillips, commended the transparency and immediacy of the intervention. He criticized what he described as “empty political promises,” contrasting them with what he termed the tangible and accessible support provided by Dr. Anyaso’s foundation.

The event drew a broad spectrum of political and community leaders, cutting across party lines in a rare show of unity. Representatives and stakeholders from the ADC, APC, Labour Party, PDP, and YPP were present, underscoring a cross-party appreciation for the humanitarian initiative.

Among the dignitaries was Pastor Okechukwu Dike, a PDP chieftain, who described the empowerment programme as a timely and impactful intervention. He urged beneficiaries and constituents to remember the gesture and continue supporting initiatives that directly improve their welfare.

Also speaking, Lolo Arisa Okparigbo, Women’s Leader of the Ofuji Movement, pledged sustained civic support from the women’s bloc, noting that the empowerment would significantly boost small businesses and family incomes.

The February outreach marks the second major empowerment drive by the Chima Anyaso Foundation in 2026. On January 1, the foundation commenced the year with a New Year intervention that saw ₦500,000 and ₦250,000 respectively distributed to selected youths and distinguished individuals across Bende.

With successive interventions within the first two months of the year, stakeholders say the foundation’s sustained momentum is gradually reshaping grassroots enterprise and strengthening community resilience in Bende Federal Constituency.