The Nasarawa state government has announced a N1 billion funding programme to support 350 young entrepreneurs across the state, in a bid to promote self-reliance and reduce unemployment.
Governor Abdullahi Sule made this known during the graduation ceremony of the pilot batch of 50 youths in Lafia, the state capital. He said the initiative is a joint effort between the state government and Interweave Solutions International, with both parties contributing N500 million each.
The first phase trained 50 youths selected from all 13 local government areas, equipping them with modern business skills. The beneficiaries will receive grants—not loans—to start and sustain their businesses.
"This initiative aligns with our administration's goal of fostering entrepreneurship, tackling youth restiveness, and supporting President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda," Governor Sule said.
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Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Yakubu Kwanta, said the empowerment programme reflects the government's commitment to youth development. He noted that since 2019, the Sule-led administration has prioritised youth-focused initiatives, recognising that young people make up over 70 percent of the state's population.
"We've put mechanisms in place to monitor the beneficiaries and ensure the grants are properly invested in viable businesses," Kwanta added.
He said additional beneficiaries will be selected and trained as the programme progresses, with support offered in phases.
Dr Exodus Esuku-Ibor, Country Director of Interweave Solutions, praised the state's commitment to the partnership. He said the first 50 graduates were grouped into five cooperatives, each with a registered business name and bank account.
According to him, grants will be deposited directly into the cooperative accounts in tranches, tied to business progress, to ensure transparency and prevent fund misuse.
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