Yemi Olakitan
In a move to combat youth unemployment and foster economic resilience, the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has empowered 531 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members with individual grants of N531,000 and business starter packs. The initiative, unveiled in Abuja, unveils the state-owned energy giant’s commitment to nurturing self-reliance among young Nigerians.
The grants and entrepreneurship kits were presented during a ceremony led by NNPC Ltd.’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, who was represented by the Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Roland Ewubare. Ojulari hailed the initiative as a “strategic investment in Nigeria’s future,” emphasizing the company’s dedication to youth development and national progress.
“Today, we are sowing seeds of transformation,” Ojulari declared. “These resources are not just financial aids but tools to build purposeful enterprises. We challenge you to uphold integrity, excellence, and innovation in your ventures.”
The empowerment drive is the culmination of a multi-tiered partnership between the NNPC Ltd. Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd. Launched in August 2023, the program began with extensive financial literacy training for over 800,000 corps members nationwide. Participants were schooled in branding, project viability, funding access, and business management.
Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of the NNPC Ltd. Foundation, revealed that the 531 beneficiaries emerged as top performers after scoring at least 70% in a rigorous selection process. “Even those not selected today now possess critical skills to secure loans and grants independently,” she said, calling the initiative a “long-term investment in Nigeria’s economic resilience.”
Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, Director-General of NYSC, praised NNPC Ltd. for its “unmatched” support, noting that few partners provide both training and tangible resources. “This holistic approach will propel beneficiaries toward sustainable business success,” he stated.
Kathleen Erhimu, founder of Kudimata Nigeria Ltd., described the initiative as a “milestone in youth empowerment,” adding, “We’re not just celebrating grants—we’re celebrating the awakening of purpose and financial independence.”
Meanwhile, Hussaini Magaji, Registrar-General of the CAC, urged recipients to formalize their businesses through the commission’s digital platforms. “Registration unlocks funding opportunities and ensures legitimacy,” said Magaji, who was represented by Hajiya Amina Fika.
