The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has empowered 531 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with N531,000 each and starter packs to support entrepreneurship and self-reliance among Nigerian youths.
The initiative, unveiled in Abuja on Thursday, was championed by NNPC Ltd.’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, who was represented by the Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Roland Ewubare.
Ojulari described the gesture as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future and a reflection of NNPC’s core values of integrity and excellence.
“You are exceptional candidates. We are proud to support your journey,” he said, encouraging the recipients to build purposeful businesses. “Use these resources wisely. They are seeds for your growth and transformation.”
The empowerment initiative is a collaborative programme involving the NNPC Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd., aimed at improving lives through financial literacy and business development.
Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, revealed that over 800,000 corps members have participated in the programme since it began in August 2023. She said the training covered business branding, funding access, and project viability. The 531 beneficiaries were selected after scoring at least 70 percent in a rigorous screening process.
Kudimata Nigeria founder, Kathleen Erhimu, described the initiative as a milestone in empowering young Nigerians towards financial independence. NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, commended NNPC for delivering both training and tangible business tools, calling it a model for youth development.
Also speaking, CAC Registrar-General, Hussaini Magaji, represented by Hajiya Amina Fika, urged beneficiaries to formalize their businesses and leverage CAC’s online registration platform for funding opportunities.
One of the recipients, Ozigi Faith, called the programme life-changing and a step toward financial freedom.
