The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has empowered 531 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members with ₦531,000 each and business starter packs. The initiative, unveiled in Abuja on Thursday, is part of a growing national effort to transform young Nigerians into job creators and economic contributors.
The presentation ceremony was led by Mr. Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., who was represented by the Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Roland Ewubare. Describing the initiative as a strategic investment in the country’s future, Ojulari emphasized NNPC Ltd.’s unwavering commitment to youth development, innovation, and national progress.
“These exceptional corps members were chosen from a highly competitive pool, and today we celebrate their potential,” Ojulari said, urging the beneficiaries to build businesses grounded in purpose, integrity, and excellence. “Use these resources wisely. They are seeds for your growth and transformation.”
The empowerment programme is a collaboration between NNPC Ltd. Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd., and it aims to provide Nigerian youths with the financial tools, training, and knowledge required to establish and grow successful businesses. According to the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, the initiative began with a strong focus on financial literacy, and over 800,000 corps members have participated since August 2023.
The 531 recipients were selected after a rigorous screening process that required scoring at least 70 percent. Arukwe emphasized that even those who were not selected gained valuable entrepreneurial skills and insights to help them access grants and loans. “This is more than a one-time intervention; it is a long-term investment in building economic resilience among Nigerian youths,” she said.
Founder of Kudimata, Kathleen Erhimu, described the initiative as a milestone in the push for youth financial independence. “We are celebrating purpose and transformation. The goal is not just support, but empowerment.”
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NYSC Director-General Brigadier-General Olakunle Nafiu praised NNPC Ltd. for providing not just training, but also tangible startup resources. “Few corporate partners offer such a complete and practical empowerment package. This will go a long way in helping the beneficiaries turn their business dreams into reality.”
Speaking on behalf of the Corporate Affairs Commission, Registrar-General Hussaini Magaji, represented by Hajiya Amina Fika, congratulated the beneficiaries for their resilience and creativity, encouraging them to formalize their businesses through CAC’s digital registration platforms. “Register your business, access funding, and build a sustainable future,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Ozigi Faith, expressed gratitude, calling the programme a turning point in her life. “It is our first real step toward financial freedom. NNPC has given us more than money, they’ve given us a future.”
With this initiative, NNPC Ltd. is not only powering Nigeria’s energy sector but also lighting the path to financial freedom for its youth, creating a model for corporate social investment that truly transforms lives.
