Soludo to Splash N3.5bn on 8,300 Youths

The Anambra State Government has concluded plans to disburse N3.5 billion to 8,300 youths under the second phase of its 1Youth2Skills Plus programme.

Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, disclosed this yesterday in Awka.

According to him, the package will enable beneficiaries to establish or expand their businesses after completing entrepreneurship and vocational training.

He said the graduation and empowerment ceremony will hold on Tuesday, September 23, at the International Conference Centre, Awka, where Governor Chukwuma Soludo is expected to personally present the support packages.

Aghamba added that the governor will also unveil fresh initiatives aimed at raising a new generation of millionaires and entrepreneurs in the state.

He recalled that 5,000 youths benefited in the first phase of the programme, receiving N2 billion in financial support, as well as mentorship and cooperative assistance.

“The Soludo administration is determined to position Anambra as a hub of innovation, productivity, and prosperity,” he said, urging beneficiaries to see the funds as an opportunity to innovate and create jobs rather than a mere handout.

The 1Youth2Skills scheme offers training in areas such as agriculture, ICT, fashion, crafts, catering, and other services.

Meanwhile, the government last week announced plans to construct a new airport at Ndikelionwu, Orumba North Local Government Area, barely four years after the inauguration of the Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport, Umueri.