Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, is set to launch another major youth empowerment initiative as the second batch of the 1Youth2Skills Plus programme prepares for graduation.
The programme, which focuses on entrepreneurship and vocational training, will see thousands of beneficiaries receive financial support to start and grow their businesses.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, confirmed that no fewer than 8,300 young people successfully completed the intensive training.
He revealed that they will be empowered with a total financing package worth ₦3.5 billion during the graduation ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, Awka, where Governor Soludo will personally present the support packages.
He is also expected to unveil additional initiatives designed to produce a new generation of millionaires and innovative entrepreneurs across the state.
Commissioner Agha Mba recalled that more than 5,000 youths benefited from the first batch of the programme, which provided over ₦2 billion in seed funding, mentorship, and cooperative support. He explained that the state government is scaling up the initiative to reach more young people and strengthen their entrepreneurial capacity.
“This second batch will not just receive financial empowerment, but also intense mentorship, cooperative partnerships, and other strategic support mechanisms to help them thrive. Mr. Governor is determined to build the next set of millionaires in Anambra State,” he said.
Describing Governor Soludo as a youth-friendly leader, the Commissioner said the programme aims to make Anambra a hub for innovation, productivity, and prosperity. He encouraged beneficiaries to view the support as an opportunity to innovate, grow their businesses, and create jobs for others in the state.
The ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries, stakeholders, and families of the beneficiaries. Success stories from the first batch will also be showcased, with highlights of thriving businesses established in agriculture, ICT, fashion, crafts, services, and other sectors.
Hon. Agha Mba expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for sustaining what he called a revolutionary investment in the future of Anambra youths, stressing that the state remains on track to become a smart and prosperous homeland driven by young people.