The Niger Delta Young Professionals (NDYP) has supported nine young entrepreneurs with business grants to help expand their ventures. Three beneficiaries received ₦1 million each, while six others were awarded ₦500,000.
The presentation took place on Tuesday in Yenagoa during the 5th Niger Delta Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Summit.
Chairman of Siloko Group and convener of the summit, Moses Siloko Siasia, said NDYP has so far empowered more than 650 young businesses across the Niger Delta, creating nearly 20,000 jobs and helping to steer youths away from social vices. He thanked the Bayelsa State Government for its support and encouraged young entrepreneurs to take responsibility for shaping the region’s future.
Delivering the keynote address, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, urged young entrepreneurs to be intentional, strategic and consistent in their pursuits. He noted that the summit offers a vital platform for acquiring business management skills needed for long-term success.
Guest speaker Dr. George Omuraro encouraged participants to identify problems, seize opportunities and avoid excuses that discourage innovation. He highlighted trust and reputation as essential assets for entrepreneurs.
Also speaking, Dr. Chimobi Anyaso stressed the need for the Niger Delta to transition from an oil-dependent economy to one driven by enterprise, where ideas, products and value become the region’s new exports.
Speakers such as Rt. Hon. Tonye Isenah, and Josephine Itonyo of Quantum Business School also addressed participants, with Itonyo offering mentorship to the grant winners.
A panel session featuring Harriet Edide, Siloko Pereowei Prince, Bruce Lucas, David Osadolor, Ekemini Udo and Blessing Asokomeh explored the major challenges confronting MSMEs including access to capital, regulatory bottlenecks and inadequate infrastructure and proposed ecosystem-driven solutions. The panel also discussed the expanding influence of digital commerce and the role of youth-led enterprises in transforming the regional economy.
