Soludo Disburses N3.5bn To 8,300 Youths Under ‘1Youth 2Skills’ Programme

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has disbursed N3.5bn in start-up funds to 8,300 beneficiaries of the second phase of the 1Youth 2Skills programme.

The event, which was held at the state’s International Convention Centre in Awka, was described by Soludo as a vital tool for human capital development.

“This programme is about creating opportunities for self-employment and job creation.

“You have received the necessary training. Now is the time to turn your skills into productive ventures,” Soludo told the beneficiaries.

The governor commended Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) for partnering in the programme and urged the graduates to put their knowledge into practice.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Mba, said the initiative was “broad-based and encompassing,” integrating retraining, certification for SMEs, value reorientation, and community-driven reforms.

“This programme redefines youth employment from consumption to productivity, innovation, and impact.

“It is an evolution to take our youth to the next level of massive economic revolution,” Mba noted.

One of the beneficiaries, Bagbile Daniel Kehinde, a corps member from Ogun State, thanked the government for its inclusivity and investment.

“Through UNIZIK Business School, I trained in cinematography and now work professionally, self-reliant and productive. This is truly an investment in Nigeria’s future,” he said.

Other graduates described the initiative as the best empowerment programme they had experienced, expressing gratitude to the government for providing a platform to acquire skills and access start-up support.

The event was attended by Deputy Governor Onyeka Ibezim, members of the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC), traditional rulers, clergy, and other dignitaries
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