The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, has launched the Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Scale-Up Grant in Jos, Plateau State, with over 2,000 beneficiaries receiving cash grants and business equipment.
The programme, unveiled at Tamarald Event Centre, saw the disbursement of ₦300 million to 2,127 beneficiaries drawn across political divides, in a move aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship and boosting small-scale enterprises in the state.
Speaking at the event, Nentawe said the initiative is designed to reposition Plateau’s economy from heavy reliance on civil service jobs to a more productive, business-driven model. He urged beneficiaries to take advantage of the opportunity to build sustainable ventures, describing their selection as a privilege that must be justified through impact.
A breakdown of the intervention shows that 1,400 beneficiaries received direct cash support totaling ₦280 million, with individual grants ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦1 million. An additional 727 beneficiaries were provided with starter packs, including tricycles, sewing machines, welding tools, POS machines with startup capital, catering kits, and other vocational equipment.
Nentawe also announced a monitoring framework for the programme, noting that beneficiaries will be evaluated after six months and one year. Those who demonstrate progress will qualify for further support, including larger grants, loans, and equipment upgrades.
He linked the initiative to the economic vision of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to grow Nigeria’s economy to $1 trillion. According to him, ongoing infrastructure projects and planned upgrades, including improved logistics and export facilities, will provide opportunities for small businesses to scale.
Representing Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, commended the initiative and described it as a timely intervention for youth empowerment. She urged beneficiaries to utilize the resources effectively to create value and contribute to community development.
Other stakeholders at the event also highlighted the importance of cooperative models and financial support systems in sustaining small businesses, noting that access to revolving loans and mentorship would further enhance the impact of the programme.
The launch attracted party stakeholders, government officials, and development partners, as the APC leadership emphasized the need for beneficiaries to align with national development goals and build enterprises capable of outlasting the initial support.
