Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Professor Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie, has led a strategic partnership with the Federal Government’s Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) to drive youth empowerment across the South-East, with a focus on Batch B registration.
The collaboration positions UNIZIK as a key institutional partner in expanding access to YEIDEP for young people within the region, particularly students and early-stage entrepreneurs seeking structured support. The move aligns with ongoing federal efforts to address unemployment, poverty, and insecurity through targeted youth-focused interventions.
Nigeria Startup News reports that YEIDEP is a federal initiative designed to reduce economic vulnerability among Nigerian youths by providing training, business support, and non-repayable grants. The programme offers up to ₦500,000 to qualified beneficiaries, especially those operating in agriculture, ICT, and vocational trades. It is managed by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI).
According to stakeholders familiar with the rollout, the UNIZIK partnership is expected to significantly improve registration reach and participation levels for South-East Batch B applicants. The university’s administrative structure and student network are seen as critical channels for onboarding eligible participants into the programme.
Director-General of YOTSI, Kennedy Iyere, said the collaboration would “expand opportunities for young people and accelerate economic growth within the region,” noting that partnerships with academic institutions remain central to YEIDEP’s implementation strategy.
Observers within the university community say the Anyaehie-led administration continues to prioritise initiatives that support entrepreneurship and innovation among students. The integration of YEIDEP into the university ecosystem is viewed as part of broader efforts to equip young people with practical skills and financial backing to build sustainable ventures.
In a related development, the Awka Development Union (ADUN), Nigeria, has reaffirmed its support for the university’s leadership. During a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, ADUN President, Chief Fredrick Chinwuba, stated that the union, comprising all villages in Awka including Umuzocha, Nkwele, Umorama, Amachalla, Amudo, and Ifite, is “unanimous in its commitment to support the administration and contribute to the advancement of the institution.”
The visit featured the presentation of symbolic Igbo kola-nuts, underscoring cultural ties and a willingness to sustain collaboration between the host community and the university. Chinwuba described the engagement as “a step towards strengthening unity and fostering mutual benefit.”
Responding, Professor Anyaehie expressed appreciation for the support, stating that both the university and the community “share common goals that can be achieved through cooperation and understanding.” He added that sustained peace and collaboration would be essential in driving development.
Members of the delegation included Prof. Vivian Nwogba, Revd. Dr. Canon H.O.N Ifediora Uchenna Loveth, Dr. Obinna, Anagor John, Obiora Anueyiagu, Emeka, Chukwunenye, and Barr. Raphael, among others. The meeting concluded with discussions centred on long-term collaboration and community engagement.
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