Source: Daily Trust
The Yobe State Government has distributed N50 million in cash grants and start-up kits to 500 entrepreneurs trained in producing various household items, including soap, detergents, charcoal, shoes, and disinfectants.
The training, conducted by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), focused on teaching participants how to utilize locally sourced materials for their businesses. It also included guidance on leveraging online business management tools.
At the distribution ceremony held at the Government House in Damaturu, Governor Mai Mala Buni announced that each beneficiary received N100,000 along with a start-up kit to help them kickstart their enterprises. He emphasized that the initiative is designed to foster self-reliance, empower local entrepreneurs, and create sustainable income streams.
Governor Buni further highlighted that the program primarily supports women and youth, who make up 70% and 30% of the beneficiaries, respectively. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to grassroots empowerment and post-conflict recovery to improve the lives of vulnerable groups and secure a better future for Yobe communities.
Dr. Goje Muhammad, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, underscored the initiative’s wider impact, revealing that over 2,500 SMEs have been trained and supported across Potiskum, Fika, Fune, Nangere, Gujba, and Damaturu Local Government Areas.
This empowerment initiative is part of Yobe State’s broader strategy to drive economic growth, combat unemployment, and promote local entrepreneurship through innovative training programs and financial support.
