Telecommunications infrastructure company IHS Nigeria has provided business support equipment to entrepreneurs with disabilities in Abuja as part of efforts to promote economic inclusion and strengthen sustainable livelihoods among underserved communities.
The intervention, delivered under the company’s Project Empower initiative, provided 50 pieces of business equipment, including sewing machines, freezers, generators and hairdressing kits, to selected beneficiaries in the Karonmajiji Disabled Community in the Federal Capital Territory.
IHS Nigeria said the initiative was designed to support existing businesses rather than provide short-term financial assistance, to help beneficiaries improve productivity, expand income opportunities and build more resilient livelihoods.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, Titilope Oguntuga, said the programme reflects the company’s commitment to supporting inclusive development through practical interventions.
She said the company adopted an asset-based approach after a community needs assessment identified the business tools required by active traders within the community.
“Rather than providing short-term financial assistance, we adopted an asset-based approach by donating business support equipment that can create lasting value for beneficiaries,” Oguntuga said.
According to her, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on reducing poverty, promoting decent work and economic growth, and reducing inequalities.
The move forms part of a broader trend among technology and infrastructure companies expanding environmental, social and governance initiatives beyond connectivity projects to include community development and economic empowerment.
IHS Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest communications infrastructure providers, has invested in initiatives focused on digital inclusion, education, skills development and community support as part of its sustainability strategy.
The Chief of the Karonmajiji Disabled Community, Sulaiman Katsina, represented by the community’s Secretary, Alhaji Mohammed Dantani, commended IHS Nigeria for supporting people with disabilities through business-focused interventions.
He said the equipment would help beneficiaries improve their businesses and create additional economic opportunities for their families.
The event brought together community leaders, government representatives, implementing partners, including Field of Skills and Dreams Vocational Technical and Entrepreneurship Training Institute, and other stakeholders.
IHS Nigeria said Project Empower is aimed at strengthening community resilience through partnerships that create opportunities for underserved groups and support long-term economic participation.
By: Justice Okamgba
