Last Updated on April 20, 2025
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has launched a ₦5 billion grant disbursement aimed at empowering more than 30,000 students in higher institutions across the North West region. This youth-focused initiative is part of a broader plan by the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, with strong support from the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. It’s a major push to support youth entrepreneurship and drive local business growth.
This financial support is not just about giving out money. It’s about helping young Nigerians turn their education into a practical tool for building real businesses. SMEDAN’s vision is to encourage students to think beyond academics and see school as a starting point for building sustainable businesses. With this grant, students can now gain both the funding and experience needed to launch small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Dr. Charles Odili, Director General of SMEDAN, explained that this program is a long-term investment in Nigeria’s economic future. He stated that through efforts like the Undergraduate Internship and this student grant program, SMEDAN is laying the groundwork for job creation and youth empowerment. These programs are helping students learn practical business skills while gaining access to capital.
This move also supports the GROW Nigerian strategy, especially its Workforce Support pillar, which focuses on expanding local businesses and preparing young Nigerians for the job market. It’s a powerful way to reduce youth unemployment and promote small business development in Nigeria.
The SMEDAN disbursement program will continue across other parts of the country, helping more students access grants and start their own ventures. This is how Nigeria builds its future—by investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs.
