Nnewi Youths to Benefit from ₦10 Million Skills and Startup Support Under LG Chairman Anazodo’s Empowerment Drive

 

A major step toward youth empowerment has taken root in Nnewi North as the Local Government Mayor, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, officially unveiled a ₦10 million support program tailored to uplift and empower young people across the community. The landmark initiative was announced during the monthly general meeting of the Nnewi Youth Forum held on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

The Mayor, who was represented at the event by the President General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Hon. Prince Jude Osumuo, declared that the empowerment project is a direct fulfillment of his administration’s campaign promises. He reiterated that the program is designed to equip young people with essential skills and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment. According to him, meaningful engagement of the youth population is critical to the long-term development and prosperity of Nnewi North.

At the heart of the initiative is a skill acquisition and startup support package that will see 15 young men and women undergo professional training in various income-generating trades. Five male participants will be trained in fields such as paint production, modern agriculture, computer networking, and other market-relevant skills. Upon successful completion of their training, each of these young men will receive a grant of ₦1 million to launch their own businesses.

On the other hand, ten young women drawn from the forum’s ladies wing will undergo intensive vocational training in cosmetology, bag and shoe making, confectionery production, and other creative sectors. Each female beneficiary will be empowered with ₦500,000 to help them establish or grow their enterprises after completing their training modules.

An additional component of the program will cater to young school leavers and fresh graduates. Twenty beneficiaries will be enrolled in a training course focused on basic computer skills, equipping them with foundational knowledge to function effectively in today’s tech-driven world.

The Mayor’s representative stressed that the program was developed not just to provide financial assistance but to lay the groundwork for self-reliance, innovation, and community growth. He urged the youth to view the support not as a gift but as an opportunity to transform their lives and contribute positively to the development of Nnewi North.

Expressing deep appreciation for the initiative, the President of the Nnewi Youth Forum, Hon. Ejim Ucheagwu, described the Mayor’s gesture as timely and inspirational. He acknowledged the numerous interventions that Mayor Anazodo has made since assuming office, particularly those that have directly benefited the youth. According to him, this latest move serves as further proof that the current administration remains genuinely committed to uplifting the younger generation.

He took a moment to assure the Mayor and his team that the selected beneficiaries would utilize the grants wisely. He expressed optimism that the program will not only enhance individual livelihoods but also serve as a model for community-driven development initiatives.

The Nnewi Youth Forum meeting ended on a high note with cheers and renewed hope among attendees. Many described the ₦10 million empowerment initiative as a beacon of opportunity at a time when many young people face uncertainty due to limited job prospects and rising economic pressures. The attendees praised the Mayor’s leadership style which prioritizes inclusive governance and grassroots development.

Voices from the crowd reflected genuine excitement. Some youths shared that such a bold and structured intervention had been long overdue, and they are grateful to see it happen during their time. Others pointed out that the initiative’s training-before-funding approach ensures accountability, skill development, and long-term sustainability.

With this bold move, Hon. Echezona Anazodo has positioned himself not just as a political leader but as a visionary partner in youth development. The impact of this initiative is expected to ripple across Nnewi North, setting a new tone for youth-focused governance in Anambra State and possibly inspiring similar efforts in neighboring communities.

As the selection and training processes begin in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Nnewi North to watch how this vision for youth empowerment unfolds and sets the pace for broader economic transformation within the region.