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The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited has provided financial assistance of N531,000 each to 531 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as part of an initiative aimed at promoting self-sufficiency among them.
In addition to the funds, the corps members were given starter packs to help launch their own businesses.
The presentation of these items took place in Abuja on Thursday and was made by Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, who was represented by Roland Ewubare, the Group Chief Operating Officer.
Ojulari highlighted that this initiative reflects NNPC Ltd’s dedication to youth empowerment and advancing national development.
He referred to the contribution as a strategic investment in Nigeria's future, underscoring the company's values of integrity and excellence.
Praising the selected corps members, he acknowledged their exceptional status among a competitive group and encouraged them to establish meaningful businesses with high standards.
He advised them to utilize the resources judiciously, describing them as seeds for their growth and transformation.
As reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, this program is a partnership involving NNPC Ltd. Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission, and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd., aimed at enhancing lives through financial support.
Managing Director of NNPC Ltd. Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe, stated that the project commenced with an emphasis on financial literacy, noting that over 800,000 corps members participated since August 2023. The training encompassed aspects such as branding, funding, and project viability.
Out of the 531 finalists, who all achieved at least 70 percent, the selection process was rigorous. Arukwe pointed out that even those not chosen in this round had acquired skills useful for securing loans and grants, marking this as a long-term investment in economic resilience.
Kathleen Erhimu, founder of Kudimata, praised the initiative as a landmark achievement, emphasizing the goal of empowering youth towards financial independence.
The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, commended NNPC Ltd. for offering both training and practical tools, stating that few partners provide such a comprehensive package.
He highlighted how this effort would significantly support the beneficiaries in realizing their business aspirations.
The Registrar-General of CAC, Hussaini Magaji, represented by Hajiya Amina Fika, congratulated the recipients and emphasized that their success reflects their resilience and creativity.
He encouraged them to formally register their businesses and take advantage of the online resources available for funding and sustainable growth.
One of the beneficiaries, Ozigi Faith, described the program as transformative, viewing it as a pivotal step toward financial freedom and urging fellow beneficiaries to remain focused and make the most of the opportunity.
