Abuja:The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN) has announced an investment of N228.3 million in an initiative focused on skills and enterprise development across five states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative is aimed at enhancing sustainable livelihoods for 180 individuals affected by leprosy and persons with disabilities (PWDs). The program will span 20 communities in Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Sokoto, and the FCT.
Beginning in October 2026, selected participants will receive vocational training, enterprise management development, and digital technology skills. The program also offers start-up support to help beneficiaries establish or strengthen their livelihood activities and expand their market access.
This initiative is part of a four-year program implemented by TLMN in collaboration with The Leprosy Mission Sweden, with financial backing from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). The program emphasizes the importance of skills, opportunity, and access to economic resources in breaking the cycle of poverty, exclusion, and dependency often faced by those affected by leprosy and PWDs.
Dr. Sunday Udo, National Director of TLMN, noted that the intervention combines practical vocational training with enterprise management and digital technology skills. Beneficiaries will develop the necessary knowledge and digital capabilities to promote their products and services, reach wider markets, and ensure enterprise sustainability.
The objective is to create opportunities for individuals affected by leprosy and PWDs to build sustainable livelihoods, participate more fully in their communities, and achieve greater economic independence. The program involves community engagement and local stakeholder participation to promote transparency, ownership, and sustainability.
This initiative represents a substantial investment in inclusive economic empowerment, aiming to ensure that individuals affected by leprosy and PWDs are not excluded from opportunities to develop their skills and contribute to their communities’ economic and social development. Through collaboration with TLM Sweden and support from Sida, TLMN remains committed to advancing sustainable livelihoods and inclusion for these individuals.