Source: Daily Trust
The Stanley Uzochukwu Foundation (SUF) has granted N40 million to support 80 small businesses in Nigeria, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the Nigerian economy by empowering young entrepreneurs. The grant ceremony took place on October 5, 2024, at The Delborough Lagos hotel and featured notable dignitaries, including former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma, Providus Bank Executive Director Adeoye Ojuroye, and Blake Resort Chairman Uzochukwu Akunedozi.
At the event, Dr. Jovita Ibie, CEO of the Stanley Uzochukwu Foundation, welcomed the beneficiaries and encouraged them to take advantage of both the financial support and the mentorship provided by the Foundation. She emphasized that the mentorship aspect would be equally important as the monetary grant, highlighting the success of SUF’s founder, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu.
Guest Speaker Arc Apeh Iwodi urged the recipients to be diligent and strategic in their use of the grants to advance their businesses. Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu congratulated the beneficiaries, encouraging them to seize this opportunity for personal transformation. He reassured them that the Foundation would continue to support their growth, offering ongoing mentorship and connecting them with future business opportunities. Dr. Uzochukwu also personally awarded N500,000 to several businesses with exceptional products, pledging to showcase their offerings at Stanel World Mart locations nationwide.
Additionally, Uzochukwu Akunedozi, CEO of Blake Resort, committed an extra N2 million to further support the grant recipients. Providus Bank’s Executive Director, Adeoye Ojuroye, announced plans to integrate the beneficiaries into the bank’s SME programs and to feature their products and services at the bank’s locations.
Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma praised the initiative, commending Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu’s leadership and the significant role of young African entrepreneurs in shaping the continent’s future. He stated, “The leadership I’ve observed today is precisely what Africa needs, and it’s uplifting to see it emerging from young African leaders.”
Several grateful beneficiaries expressed their intention to support the Foundation’s orphanage projects, reflecting the transformative spirit of the event.
This recent round of grants is part of the Stanley Uzochukwu Foundation’s broader mission to empower Nigerian youths and promote sustainable business growth throughout the country.
