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Unity Bank empowers NYSC entrepreneurs with N16m grants

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Unity Bank empowers NYSC entrepreneurs with N16m grants

Unity Bank has continued its push for youth entrepreneurship in Nigeria through its Corpreneurship Challenge, with over 578 young entrepreneurs benefiting since the programme began. The initiative, designed to support National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members with promising business ideas, has provided grants, mentorship, and exposure to help young Nigerians establish sustainable ventures in different sectors of the economy.

In the latest Batch B, Stream II edition held during NYSC orientation camps across 10 states, 30 new winners received a combined grant of N16 million. These winners presented business ideas in areas such as fashion design, bag making, pastry production, beverage manufacturing, event management, vegetable farming, fish farming, and poultry.

At the Lagos NYSC Orientation Camp in Ipaja, Fiyinfoluwa Titilayo Ojo emerged as the overall winner with her soap-making business pitch, securing the N800,000 grand prize. Expressing her joy, she said, “I’m truly grateful to Unity Bank for this opportunity. Winning the Corpreneurship Challenge has given me the push and confidence I needed to scale my soap-making business. Beyond the grant, the experience taught me how to structure my business better and believe in its potential. It’s amazing to see a bank that genuinely invests in young people’s dreams.”

In the same camp, Ndukwe Chiamaka Joan, who presented a Small Chops business proposal, won N500,000 as first runner-up. Barakat Modinat Olamide received N300,000 to support her beverage venture. Similar competitions were held in Delta, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kwara, Benue, Abia, Kogi, Rivers, and Plateau States, where 27 more corps members emerged as winners with innovative business plans ranging from piggery and cake production to printing and agriculture-based services.

Unity Bank’s Corpreneurship Challenge has become a key feature of the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme over the past six years. Each edition attracts thousands of applications from corps members who are evaluated based on originality, market relevance, job creation potential, and business management capability. The initiative aligns with national efforts to reduce unemployment by encouraging self-reliance and enterprise development among graduates.

Speaking at the Lagos grand finale, Unity Bank’s Divisional Head of Retail & SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, highlighted the importance of empowering young people through entrepreneurship. She stated, “At Unity Bank, we believe that the energy and creativity of young Nigerians are vital to the nation’s economic transformation. The Corpreneurship Challenge is our way of nurturing this potential — by giving corps members the financial boost, mentorship, and confidence to turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Seeing over 578 young entrepreneurs already impacted motivates us to keep expanding the initiative and deepening our support for the SME ecosystem.”

The Corpreneurship Challenge has earned national recognition for Unity Bank, especially for its contributions to youth empowerment, financial inclusion, and job creation. With over 2,000 applicants per edition, the programme has become a trusted platform for identifying and nurturing young innovators. Grants of up to N800,000 are awarded to winners to help them launch or scale their businesses, reducing the pressure of seeking white-collar jobs in a competitive market.

By partnering with NYSC and its SAED programme, Unity Bank continues to encourage entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Young Nigerians participating in the challenge not only receive funding but also gain business training and mentorship, enabling them to build long-term ventures. The initiative supports key economic sectors, promotes small business growth, and inspires other financial institutions to invest in youth-led enterprises.

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Nigeria unveils 5 million women database initiative

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Nigeria unveils 5 million women database initiative

Nigeria has taken a major step toward inclusive development with the launch of the 5 Million Women Database Initiative in Abuja, designed to empower women through data, technology, and targeted policy interventions. The initiative, led by the Dr Ejike Oji Community Development Foundation in collaboration with the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (NCWD), aims to gather comprehensive data on five million women across the country to shape programmes in health, education, and economic empowerment.

At the launch, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described the initiative as “a symbol of hope and progress” and stressed its importance in addressing gender gaps. He noted that the platform would act as “a nexus for resources, opportunities, and support networks designed to empower women to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.” Emphasising the significance of digital inclusion and innovation, he said, “data is the new oil,” highlighting that evidence-based policies rely on accurate and reliable information.

Convener of the initiative, Dr Ejike Oji, called the launch “a transformative step toward harnessing data for empowerment.” He explained that the digital platform will offer real-time access to critical information related to women’s health, economic opportunities, and legal rights. “This tool will not only inform policy but also drive real change from the bustling streets of Lagos to rural villages across Nigeria,” he said. He further outlined six key values guiding the project: integrity, innovation, collaboration, excellence, empathy, and sustainability. According to him, these values are essential for ensuring long-term impact and national reach. “This is not just about collecting data; it’s about transforming it into actionable knowledge,” he added.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Catherine Chinedum Aniagolu-Okoye, Regional Director of the Ford Foundation Office for West Africa, praised the initiative as “a revolution in how we see, engage with, and empower women.” She explained that the platform was established through a strategic partnership aimed at closing Nigeria’s persistent data gap, particularly for women in rural and marginalised communities. She noted that the database would integrate sectors such as health, business, and education, offering tools including AI Medic for low-cost telemedicine, MyDiner and E-Commerce Hub for entrepreneurship, and micro-loan opportunities to support women-led businesses.

Aniagolu-Okoye urged stakeholders to ensure transparency and ethical use of the data. She said, “when five million women are connected, educated, and economically active, the ripple effect will transform Nigeria.” She pointed out that technology and accurate information will be crucial in designing scalable interventions that promote financial inclusion and digital literacy.

In her goodwill message, Dr Salma Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, commended the initiative, calling it “evidence for action.” She stated that reliable data is essential for advancing the government’s Renewed Hope Health Agenda, enabling more responsive programmes in reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health. “This will expose the real challenges women face and bridge the gaps in policy and action,” Dr Salma said. She stressed that sustainable national development is not achievable without women as equal partners in progress.

The event attracted representatives from the National Assembly, civil society organisations, international development partners, and women’s advocacy groups. Stakeholders agreed that the database will support informed policymaking and enhance access to healthcare, finance, and education for millions of women.

Ogun State opens job centre to tackle unemployment

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Ogun State opens job centre to tackle unemployment

Ogun State has officially commissioned the Ogun Job Centre at the Government Science and Technical College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, signalling a major step towards reducing unemployment and improving youth empowerment. The initiative, developed in partnership with the German Cooperation, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, and the World Bank through the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, aims to provide job matching, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support for residents seeking better opportunities.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele said the centre would serve as “a strategic platform where skills will meet opportunity, and where dedication will be rewarded with personal and economic growth.” She emphasised that the government is committed to creating sustainable employment avenues that will uplift young people and stimulate economic development across the state.

The partnership with GIZ GmbH is expected to strengthen capacity building, while international development support will ensure global best practices in employment services. With rising demand for skilled labour and digital jobs, the Ogun Job Centre is positioned to address challenges in job creation and improve access to career guidance. The project is seen as a vital investment in human capital, designed to enhance productivity and support long-term economic stability for Ogun State.

FATE Foundation opens 10m revolving loan fund programme Cohort 7

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FATE Foundation opens 10m revolving loan fund programme Cohort 7

FATE Foundation has opened applications for the 7th Cohort of its Revolving Loan Fund Programme (RFP) in Lagos State, aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs between ages 18 and 35. The initiative, organised in partnership with Youth Business International and Future Makers by Standard Chartered Foundation, seeks to provide access to financial empowerment, business development, and advisory support.

According to the organisers, “The Revolving Loan Fund Programme is designed for nano and micro business owners in Lagos State to enhance their financial skills and improve access to loan funding for business growth.” The hybrid training is set to begin on Monday, 16th February 2026, and will run until 11th March 2026.

Participants will benefit from financial literacy training, low-interest loans ranging from N500,000 to N10,000,000, and digital tools for financial empowerment. The programme also prioritises women and persons with disabilities, with care support available for nursing mothers.

“The FATE School START. GROW. SCALE. continues to equip young entrepreneurs with essential business and financial knowledge,” the Foundation stated.

Interested applicants are required to first complete the LMS Course (Phase 1) at bit.ly/FATE-SCFphase1 before proceeding to apply for the hybrid training (Phase 2) through bit.ly/RFPLagosCohort7.

Applications close on 25th January 2026, and selected participants will have the opportunity to access business loans, mentorship, and financial training to scale their enterprises in Lagos State.

CAAN, DO Take Action launch SWEEAP to empower 600 women entrepreneurs

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CAAN, DO Take Action launch SWEEAP to empower 600 women entrepreneurs

The Chevening Alumni Association of Nigeria (CAAN), in partnership with DO Take Action, has launched the Scaling Women’s Economic Empowerment through Affirmative Procurement (SWEEAP) project in Kano and Rivers States. The project, funded by the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund (CAPF), aims to increase the capacity of 600 women-led businesses to access Nigeria’s public procurement opportunities.

According to CAAN, the SWEEAP project is part of the Chevening Awards (FCDO) global mission to strengthen leadership, inclusion, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The initiative focuses on practical empowerment for women entrepreneurs through intensive training and digital learning.

“SWEEAP is designed to help women business owners develop procurement skills, bidding strategies, and the ability to write winning proposals,” a representative from CAAN stated. Participants will also gain digital tool expertise, export readiness skills, and access to professional networks that connect them with other women leaders.

The project offers a one-month intensive virtual training programme that includes advocacy for policy change in gender-sensitive procurement. It targets women who own or lead CAC-registered businesses in Kano or Rivers State and are ready to scale by accessing government contracts.

Interested applicants can visit bit.ly/SWEEAPC2 to register and participate in this women empowerment and business development opportunity.

Lagos scholarship board schedules batch B cbt

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Lagos scholarship board schedules batch B cbt

The Lagos State Scholarship Board has announced that all applicants for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Scholarship Awards who have successfully completed the Indigeneship Verification Exercise and are listed under Batch B will take their Computer-Based Test (CBT) on Saturday, 18th October, 2025.

According to the board, “The Computer-Based Test will hold at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Oto-Ijanikin, starting at 9:00 a.m. prompt.”

Applicants are advised to take note of the schedule and ensure punctuality for the scholarship examination.

Benue food basket brewery begins recruitment

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Benue food basket brewery begins recruitment

The Food Basket Brewery, a subsidiary of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), has announced a recruitment drive for skilled professionals as part of its ongoing expansion in Benue State. The company is inviting qualified candidates to join its growing team in various technical and production roles.

According to the management, “The Food Basket Brewery is expanding its brewing operations and seeks qualified and experienced professionals to join its team.” The available positions include Lead Brewer, Maintenance Engineer, Electrical/Instrumentation Technician, Maintenance Technicians, and Quality Assurance Technicians.

The Lead Brewer will oversee brewing operations, supervise staff, and ensure production targets and safety standards are achieved. The Maintenance Engineer will handle preventive maintenance schedules, troubleshoot machinery, and ensure minimal downtime. The Electrical/Instrumentation Technician will manage PLCs, motors, drives, and control systems, while Maintenance Technicians will perform corrective maintenance and assist in system upgrades. Quality Assurance Technicians will conduct quality checks, support laboratory testing, and maintain sanitation protocols.

The company noted that only applicants with relevant experience will be considered. “Applicants must currently work in a similar industry with at least five years of experience,” the statement added. Interested candidates are advised to apply through the official Google Forms provided for each role.

Applications should be submitted within one week from the date of publication. Candidates can apply directly through the following links: Lead Brewer, Maintenance Engineer, Electrical/Instrumentation Technician, Maintenance Technicians, and Quality Assurance Technicians.

UNDP opens application for digital youth enterprise sprint

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UNDP opens application for digital youth enterprise sprint

Application is now open for the Digital for Youth-Led Enterprise, a 5-day Design Thinking Sprint for young innovators in Nigeria, organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The national training will take place in Abuja from 10 to 14 November 2025.

According to the organisers, the programme will bring together 30 young Nigerians passionate about using digital innovation to tackle challenges in Agriculture, Health, and Education — three key sectors identified by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The initiative is led by the House of Representatives Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility (CCRS) and fully funded by the UNDP. It will cover travel, accommodation, and meals for all selected participants. The event aims to build youth capacity in technology, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving using design thinking.

“Young people are at the centre of innovation and enterprise in Nigeria. This programme provides them with the right tools to turn digital ideas into sustainable solutions,” said the organisers.

Eligible applicants must be aged between 18 and 35 and demonstrate interest in digital innovation.

Applications close on 26 October 2025, while successful candidates will be announced on 31 October 2025. Interested participants can apply via bit.ly/DigYouth.

FG to list 1000 SMEs on Nigerian capital market

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FG to list 1000 SMEs on Nigerian capital market

The Federal Government has introduced a new initiative aimed at helping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) gain access to long-term financing through the Nigerian capital market. The move is part of ongoing economic reforms to drive growth, create jobs, and strengthen local businesses across the country.

The plan was unveiled after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja. The agreement sets out a framework to connect SMEs directly to the capital market, reducing their dependence on high-interest bank loans.

According to officials, the government plans to list at least 1,000 SMEs on the Nigerian Exchange. This will allow small businesses to raise capital by selling shares to investors, a model typically reserved for larger corporations. The initiative supports the government’s goal of improving access to equity financing for local enterprises.

Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of SEC, said the collaboration would “bridge the financing gap faced by millions of Nigerian SMEs.” He noted that “by integrating these businesses into the capital market, we are creating opportunities for sustainable funding, job creation, and national economic growth.”

Nigeria currently has over 40 million registered Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Many face challenges such as inadequate funding and short-term credit facilities. By providing access to the capital market, the initiative aims to promote innovation, expansion, and better corporate governance among SMEs.

The project also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic diversification and private sector–led development. “A vibrant SME sector will boost investor confidence, attract both local and foreign capital, and enhance Nigeria’s non-oil revenue base,” said Dr. Agama.

The SEC–SMEDAN partnership is regarded as a major step toward transforming Nigeria’s business environment. It aims to empower entrepreneurs, strengthen the financial market, and build a more inclusive economy through capital market investment opportunities.

Governor Otti launches Abia waste-to-wealth initiative

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Governor Otti launches Abia waste-to-wealth initiative

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has launched a new Waste-to-Wealth Initiative aimed at boosting the state’s internally generated revenue and providing employment for thousands of young people.

Speaking during the October edition of the Monthly Media Parley tagged “Governor Alex Otti Speaks” in Umuahia, the Governor said the programme would mark a major shift from the traditional waste evacuation system to a more sustainable model focused on recycling and power generation.

Governor Otti explained that feasibility studies had already been completed, and discussions were ongoing with investors to convert waste into methane gas and electricity, using models that have proven successful in Europe and other developed countries. He said the initiative would not only improve environmental sustainability but also support energy production and economic growth.

He praised the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) for maintaining cleanliness across Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia, and other local government areas. The Governor noted that the agency’s efforts have contributed to improving the state’s health standards and urban sanitation.

On industrial development, Governor Otti announced that the state was finalising talks with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to take over and revive key abandoned industries, including Aba Star Paper Mills, Modern Ceramics, Umuahia, International Glass Industry, and Aba Textile Mills. He said the revival of these factories would stimulate local production, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s manufacturing base.

Governor Otti also highlighted the progress in the education sector, noting that some schools had been upgraded into smart learning centres, while teachers were receiving digital training to improve classroom performance. He directed that any school building that fails an integrity test should be demolished to protect teachers and pupils.

Reacting to recent political remarks, Governor Otti said he was not worried about the statement by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Kalu, that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would take over Abia in 2027, stating, “The electorate will decide who governs the state.”

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