By Nana Musa
The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has given N531,000 each to 531 NYSC members in a bid to make them self reliant.
The corps members were also empowered with starter packs to start their own businesses.
The items were presented to the corps members by the Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NNPC Ltd., Mr Bayo Ojulari in Abuja on Thursday.
Ojulari was represented by Mr Roland Ewubare, the Group Chief Operating Officer of NNPC Ltd.
According to him, the initiative underscores NNPC Ltd’s commitment to youth development and national progress.
Ojulari described the gesture as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future as well as a reflection of NNPCL’s values of integrity and excellence.
He praised the corps members, adding that they were selected 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.
“Use these resources wisely. They are seeds for your growth and transformation,” he advised.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme is a collaboration among NNPC Ltd. Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd.
The aim is to improve lives through financial empowerment.
The Managing Director of NNPC Ltd. Foundation, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe, said the project began with a focus on financial literacy.
“More than 800,000 corps members have participated since August 2023,” she said.
Arukwe said the training covered branding, funding, project viability, and more.
The 531 finalists scored at least 70 per cent to qualify after a rigorous 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, hailed the initiative as a 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, commended NNPC Ltd. for providing both training and tangible tools.
“Few partners offer such a complete package,” he said.
Nafiu praised the foundation’s contribution to 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 CAC, Hussaini Magaji, represented by Hajiya Amina Fika, congratulated 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 life-changing. “It is our first step to financial freedom.
“Let us stay focused and make the most of it,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo/Ese E. Eniola Williams
