NNPCL Empowers 531 Corps Members With Grants And Starter Packs

The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has awarded N531,000 each to 531 NYSC members to promote self-reliance.

In addition to the cash grants, the corps members received starter packs to help them launch their own businesses.

The presentation was made in Abuja on Thursday by the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Bayo Ojulari, who was represented by the Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Roland Ewubare.

Ojulari emphasized that the initiative demonstrates NNPC Ltd’s dedication to youth development and national progress.

He described the support as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future and a reflection of NNPCL’s core values of integrity and excellence.

Ojulari also praised the corps members, noting that they were chosen from a highly competitive pool.

“You are exceptional candidates. We are proud to support your journey,” he said.

Ojulari urged the recipients to build purposeful businesses and uphold high standards in their entrepreneurial pursuits.

“Use these resources wisely. They are seeds for your growth and transformation,” he advised.

Arukwe stated that the project originally concentrated on teaching corps members vital financial literacy skills to enable them to make smart financial choices.

She noted that the empowerment effort aims to move them from learning to implementation by offering the tools required to launch their own businesses, supporting self-reliance and addressing youth unemployment.

“More than 800,000 corps members have participated since August 2023,” she said.

Arukwe stated that the training included topics such as branding, funding, project viability, and others.

The 531 selected finalists qualified by scoring a minimum of 70 percent in a thorough selection process.

“Even those not selected today have gained skills to access loans and grants. This is a long-term investment in economic resilience,” she said.

Kudimata founder, Kathleen Erhimu, praised the initiative as a significant milestone.

“We are celebrating purpose and transformation. Our goal is to empower the youth for financial independence,” she said.

The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, applauded NNPC Ltd. for offering both training and practical resources.

“Few partners offer such a complete package,” he said.

Nafiu commended the foundation for its support in promoting youth entrepreneurship.

“This will go a long way in helping the beneficiaries realise their business dreams,” he said.

In his remarks, the Registrar-General of the CAC, Hussaini Magaji, represented by Hajiya Amina Fika, extended his congratulations to the recipients.

“Your success is a testament to your resilience and creativity,” he said.

He encouraged the beneficiaries to register their businesses formally.
“Take advantage of our online platforms to access funding and grow sustainable enterprises,” he urged.

One of the beneficiaries, Ozigi Faith, described the programme as transformative.

“It is our first step to financial freedom.

“Let us stay focused and make the most of it,” he said.