The Nigerian government has launched a major campaign to fight youth unemployment, hunger, poverty, and radicalisation. In partnership with the Youth Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), the government introduced the YEIDEP Global Donorship Drive and Fundraising Campaign. Their goal is to raise $2.5 billion to fund the Cooperative Youth Farmers and Allied Entrepreneurs Programme (CYFAEP), which will help young Nigerians build careers in farming and entrepreneurship.
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development is leading this initiative under a larger project known as the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP). With support from international donors and private companies, the ministry plans to give young Nigerians practical skills and real opportunities. Instead of letting poverty and hopelessness push them into crime or drugs, the programme will train them to earn an honest living.
Millions of Youth Already Registered For YEIDEP
So far, almost six million young Nigerians, including many women, have joined the programme. According to Comrade Kennedy Iyere, the campaign convener, the target is to reach 20 million participants by 2027. Training will cover a wide range of skills such as modern farming, food processing, small business development, agri-tech, and clean energy. The main aim is to help participants build lasting businesses and gain financial freedom.
To ensure transparency, the campaign organisers brought in eight Nigerian banks, including GTBank, Zenith Bank, Wema Bank, and Union Bank. These banks will act as custodians of the $2.5 billion fund. They will track all financial activities, monitor how funds are spent, and support businesses created through the programme. This setup builds trust and prevents misuse of funds.
Youth Crisis Demands Urgent Action
Speaking at the launch, Comrade Iyere described the situation as urgent. He said Nigeria faces a serious risk if it fails to support its youth. Many young people feel left out, and this frustration could lead to unrest. He called on all Nigerians—no matter their religion, tribe, or political view—to support the programme. In his words, saving the future means everyone must work together.
YEIDEP places special focus on industries that can create jobs and boost the economy. These include agriculture, solar power, and food and beverage production. By growing these sectors, the campaign hopes to reduce poverty, improve food security, and support local economies in both rural and urban areas. Training in these fields will prepare youths to lead in sustainable development.
Comrade Iyere stressed that the initiative is not political. The goal is not personal gain but to protect Nigeria’s future. He urged citizens to put aside personal or political differences and support the campaign. According to him, when young people succeed, the entire country benefits.
Over the coming months, YEIDEP will continue to share updates on the campaign. These updates will include details about funds raised, the number of youths trained, and the results of different projects. Interested or want to get involved, click here.
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