Nnewi Youth Forum launches ₦250m empowerment program to tackle unemployment

.…Initiative to Provide Vocational Training, Grants for Young Entrepreneurs

In a strategic move to combat youth unemployment and promote vocational skills development, the Nnewi Youth Forum has launched the Nnewi Youth Sustainable Empowerment Scheme (NYSES), a ₦250 million initiative aimed at equipping young people with practical skills for self-reliance.

The initiative is backed by Chief Ifeanyi Ekwulugwo, founder of the IYCON Foundation, with the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi (ADON) Vocational and Technical Academy serving as the official training partner. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the project was formally signed yesterday.

Speaking at the unveiling, Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government, Echezona Anazodo, described the program as a transformative step in youth empowerment. He commended the IYCON Foundation for its investment in the future of Nnewi’s youth and pledged the local government’s full support to ensure the program’s success.

Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, reiterated the church’s commitment to youth development, emphasizing that empowering young people has been a long-standing vision.

“The establishment of a vocational training center for skill acquisition and rehabilitation aligns with our mission. I commend the IYCON Foundation for complementing these efforts, despite the challenges of sustaining such programs,” Bishop Obi stated.

He also praised the Anambra State Government’s efforts in tackling crime, noting that initiatives like this provide young people with viable alternatives to criminal activities by fostering self-reliance.

The five-year program officially opens its online application platform today. Successful applicants will be admitted into the ADON Vocational and Technical Academy, where they will undergo six months of intensive training in various fields, including: Electrical and Electronics Technology, Automobile Technology, Building Technology, Catering and Hospitality and Other marketable vocational skills.

At the end of the training, outstanding participants will receive a ₦1 million grant to kickstart their businesses. The IYCON Foundation will fund the initiative, while ADON Vocational Academy will provide structured training, with the Nnewi Youth Forum coordinating the program.

President of the Nnewi Youth Forum, Ejim Ucheagwu, expressed gratitude for the realization of this initiative.

“Seeing the youth of Nnewi empowered has been my vision, and today, it is becoming a reality. We deeply appreciate the IYCON Foundation for funding this project and the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi for partnering with us to make this possible,” he said.