The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has empowered 2,127 business owners in Jos, Plateau State, with financial grants and starter packs aimed at boosting small and medium-scale enterprises.
Out of the beneficiaries, 1,400 business owners received grants: 600 individuals got ₦1 million each, while 800 others received ₦100,000 in cash support.
In addition, 727 beneficiaries were provided with starter packs, including tricycles, sewing machines, catering equipment, hairdressing and makeup kits, as well as welding and grinding machines.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony held in Jos on Wednesday, Professor Yilwatda said the initiative was conceived in 2018 when he supported farmers in Pankshin with soft loans to enhance agricultural productivity.
He disclosed that a team of business experts has been constituted to monitor and evaluate the performance of beneficiaries. According to him, those who demonstrate prudent use of the funds and expand their businesses will receive additional support after one year.
“The amount given to each beneficiary will be doubled after our evaluation,” he assured.
The APC National Chairman also urged citizens to support the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu, noting that the current administration has viable economic plans that will benefit Nigerians.
He further revealed that the Plateau business community stands to gain significantly, as there are ongoing plans to upgrade the Yakubu Gowon Airport to international standards.
In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, who represented Governor Caleb Mutfwang, advised beneficiaries to utilise the funds responsibly and avoid spending them on frivolities.
Earlier, the Lead Consultant of the Nentawe Scale-Up Entrepreneurship Programme, Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, explained that out of an initial 58,000 applicants, only 875 were successfully screened based on the viability and seriousness of their businesses.
He appealed to Professor Yilwatda to expand the programme nationwide as a strategy to reduce the high level of poverty in the country.
Some beneficiaries expressed joy and gratitude over the support, describing it as timely and impactful.
