State to award business grants on International Youth Day as Ododo administration prioritises youth empowerment and job creation
By Danjuma AMODU
LOKOJA – The Kogi State Government has announced the 2026 edition of the Kogi Youth Entrepreneurship & Business Grant Programme, a two-day initiative designed to equip young entrepreneurs with training, financial education and direct funding support.
The programme, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations: Empowering Kogi Youth Through Business Grants,” will be held on Monday, 11th August and Tuesday, 12th August 2026.
According to the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Aridaojo Anyebe, the first day will feature entrepreneurship lectures, financial education sessions and business pitch presentations. The second day, which coincides with International Youth Day, will be dedicated to the presentation of business grants to successful participants selected through their pitch presentations.
Anyebe said the initiative reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to youth development as a driver of sustainable economic growth in the state.
“The future of Kogi State lies in the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of our young people,” he said. “Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, youth development has remained a key priority, with practical initiatives that continue to create opportunities for empowerment, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.”
He urged young entrepreneurs in Kogi State with viable business ideas to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the programme aims to transform innovative ideas into businesses that can create jobs and contribute to the state’s development.
“My sincere appreciation goes to His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and for consistently investing in the dreams and aspirations of Kogi youths,” Anyebe added.
Kogi State, located in north-central Nigeria, has one of the youngest populations in the country. The administration of former Governor Yahaya Bello pioneered the entrustment of state governance to young people by appointing them to head sensitive positions, a tradition that Governor Usman Ododo has continued.
Governor Ododo, who assumed office in January 2024, has made youth and skills development a pillar of his agenda. Previous interventions include vocational training, agricultural grants and start-up support schemes.
The 2026 Youth Entrepreneurship & Business Grant Programme aligns with International Youth Day, observed globally on 12th August, and forms part of broader state efforts to formalise youth-led enterprises and reduce reliance on public sector jobs.
Interested applicants are expected to register via the application link on the official programme flyer herein.
