High Chief Engr. Kestin Pondi, through Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, has disbursed ₦300m to 30 additional beneficiaries under the Kestin Pondi Business Grant 2.0, with each recipient receiving ₦10m, fulfilling a pledge made during the first phase of the programme and increasing the total number of beneficiaries to 80.
The presentation ceremony, held at the MBB Consortium in Effurun, Delta State, featured a business seminar and panel session involving beneficiaries from the 2025 cohort, as part of efforts to deepen entrepreneurial capacity and ensure sustainability of funded ventures.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Victor Isereke, reiterated the vision behind the initiative, describing it as a deliberate effort by High Chief Engr. Kestin Pondi to drive sustainable business development nationwide. He urged beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds, stressing that the grant was designed to build impactful enterprises. “This initiative reflects a strong commitment to empowering entrepreneurs. Beneficiaries must be strategic in utilising these funds to grow ventures that create value,” he said.
Also addressing participants, Tantita Admin Manager, Miss Daisy Jaja, emphasised discipline and accountability in managing the grant. She warned against misuse of the funds, stating, “Don’t fail the sponsors. Use the money for the purpose it was given. Your seed is meant to be planted, not eaten, and aim to be among those who will return next year as mentors.”
In the same vein, Comr. Nicholas Igarama, Chairman of the Ijaw Youth Council (Western Zone), alongside Commissioner Goru Oghenekaro, encouraged recipients to focus on business growth and community impact. According to Igarama, “Its true impact will be seen when you succeed and uplift others.”
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, with one describing the grant as a “dream come true,” noting the difficulty of accessing such funding through conventional financial institutions. Another beneficiary described the opportunity as “grace,” pledging to justify the confidence reposed in them.
Following the disbursement, beneficiaries are expected to undergo a post-grant business development programme, which includes lifetime mentorship from seasoned business coaches.
