APC Chairman empowers 2,127 youths with tools, POS machines, and ₦280 million grants to boost entrepreneurship in Plateau State.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has launched a major youth empowerment initiative in Plateau State, providing tools, equipment, and financial support to over 2,100 beneficiaries under the Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme.
The initiative, designed to boost entrepreneurship and reduce unemployment, delivered practical resources to 727 young Nigerians, equipping them with essential tools to start or expand their businesses across multiple sectors.
Beneficiaries received a wide range of income-generating equipment, including 20 tricycles, 33 catering kits, 26 embroidery machines with pressing irons, and 172 sewing machines. Others were provided with 75 welding and fabrication toolboxes, 100 auto mechanic kits, 75 carpentry toolboxes, and grinding machines for both dry and wet processing.
In addition, 110 Point-of-Sale (POS) machines were distributed, each accompanied by a ₦100,000 startup fund to support small-scale digital and financial service operations. The empowerment package also covered beauty and tech-related tools such as make-up kits and phone repair equipment, including solar-powered systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Beyond equipment distribution, the programme extended financial assistance to 1,400 youths through a structured cash grant system totaling ₦280 million. The grants were categorized into four groups: 60 individuals received ₦1 million each, 140 beneficiaries got ₦500,000, 300 individuals were awarded ₦200,000, while 900 recipients received ₦100,000 each.
This multi-layered support approach aims to stimulate grassroots economic growth by enabling young people to establish sustainable businesses in fields like transportation, tailoring, catering, mechanics, welding, beauty services, and digital commerce.
Professor Yilwatda described the programme as a practical expression of the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing its commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and poverty reduction. He noted that providing both tools and financial backing ensures that beneficiaries have a stronger foundation to succeed.
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The initiative has drawn widespread praise for its direct impact on local communities and its role in promoting self-reliance among young Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots level.
