531 NYSC members have received N531,000 apiece from the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited to help them become self-sufficient. 

Additionally, beginning supplies for launching their own enterprises were provided to the corps members.  In Abuja on Thursday, NNPC chief Bayo Ojulari gave the gifts to the corps members. 

The effort, according to Mr. Ojulari, demonstrates NNPCL's dedication to youth development and national advancement.  He said the gesture reflected NNPCL's ideals of quality and integrity and was a strategic investment in Nigeria's future.

“You are exceptional candidates. We are proud to support your journey,” the NNPCL boss told the selected corps members.

Mr. Ojulari challenged the awardees to maintain high standards and create enterprises with a purpose.

“Use these resources wisely. They are seeds for your growth and transformation,” Mr Ojulari advised them.

The NNPCL Foundation, NYSC, Corporate Affairs Commission, and Kudimata Nigeria Ltd. collaborated on the initiative, which aims to empower people financially. 

According to Emmanuella Arukwe, managing director of the NNPCL Foundation, the project started with an emphasis on financial literacy.

“More than 800,000 corps members have participated since August 2023,” she said.

According to Ms. Arukwe, among other topics, the training addressed project viability, funding, and branding.  Following a selection process, the 531 finalists had to score at least 70% in order to be eligible.

“Even those not selected today have gained skills to access loans and grants. This is a long-term investment in economic resilience,” Ms Arukwe said.

Olakunle Nafiu, the director-general of NYSC, praised NNPCL for offering practical tools and training.

Source