The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria has announced a new group of young innovators from Akwa Ibom State who are transforming traditional skills into modern businesses. According to UNDP, these innovators are helping local entrepreneurs embrace digital tools, financial literacy, and market access. The initiative is also focused on job creation and youth empowerment, particularly in the informal sector.
“Akwa Ibom’s innovators are transforming traditional craftsmanship into modern-day businesses,” UNDP said in its statement. “From local tailors to shoemakers, these changemakers are helping micro-entrepreneurs access digital tools, financial literacy, and market linkages.”
The innovators were selected under the Young Africa Innovates programme, which aims to unlock opportunities for thousands of unemployed youth. Several of the participants are building platforms that connect creative talents with paying clients, opening up new economic pathways across the state.
The list of innovators and their sectors includes Ataima Onofiok in agriculture, Odudu-Abasi George in tourism, Patrick Afia in green energy and recycling, Idara Bassey in the creative sector, and Saviour Henry in tourism. Others are Aniekan Harry in agriculture, Mitchel Chukwudi in food manufacturing and processing, Glory Victor in tourism, Ekaette Sunday in food processing, and Blessing Saturday in tourism.
Also selected are Unwana Edet in the creative sector, Etini Isaac in agriculture, Glory Akpan in agriculture, Cheryl-Victoria Udom in the creative sector, Emmanuel Enensi in tourism, Ozioma Igwe in tourism, Edikeneabasi Peters in tourism, Semfon Essien in tourism, Victoria Peter in tourism, and Victoria Uyoh in agriculture.
The list continues with Eme Etim in the creative sector, Unwana James in tourism, Beatrice Joshua in the creative sector, Catherine Chime in agriculture, Victor Asuquo in tourism, Victor Okon in tourism, Victoria Francis in the green economy and recycling, and Ndueso Etuk in the green economy and recycling.