Activate Success International successfully hosted the 11th edition of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, bringing together stakeholders from government, the private sector, development organizations, and young entrepreneurs to promote youth empowerment and economic development.
In her opening address, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Activate Success International, Mrs. Love Iloko-Idoko, reflected on the organization’s journey and impact over the past eleven years. She recounted her personal story of losing her father at the age of eleven, an experience that inspired her commitment to empowering young people through entrepreneurship and capacity development.
According to Mrs. Iloko-Idoko, Activate Success has remained dedicated to improving the lives of Nigerian youths by creating opportunities for business growth, mentorship, and financial support. Through its partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), over ₦50 million has been disbursed to support start-up businesses, enabling many young entrepreneurs to establish and expand their ventures.
She expressed gratitude to several partners and supporters, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, whom she described as one of the programme’s highest donors in the previous year; renowned fashion entrepreneur Seyi Vodi, who donated 50 sewing machines in 2025; and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. She also acknowledged the support of Flutterwave, Crown Properties, and other corporate partners.
Mrs. Iloko-Idoko emphasized that Activate Success celebrates determination and resilience rather than positions and titles. She encouraged young people to develop strategic plans for their future and remain focused on achieving their goals despite challenges.
NYSC DG Commends Partnership
Delivering a goodwill message, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle A. Nafiu, commended Activate Success International for its sustained commitment to youth empowerment. He noted that the partnership between the NYSC and Activate Success has spanned nearly a decade and has contributed significantly to promoting entrepreneurship among corps members.
The NYSC DG stated that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s economic development agenda and the Renewed Hope vision, particularly through the NYSC’s Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, which encourages self-reliance and job creation among young graduates.
FCT Chief Judge Pledges Support
The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory, Justice Hussein Baba-Yusuf, praised the initiative for providing hope and opportunities to young Nigerians. He described youth empowerment as critical to national development and pledged his continued support for programmes that promote the welfare and economic advancement of the younger generation.
Justice Baba-Yusuf also commended Mrs. Iloko-Idoko for her dedication and consistency in advancing youth-focused initiatives despite various challenges.
European Union Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerian Youth
Speaking at the event, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, applauded Activate Success International for its efforts in empowering young Nigerians. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development across Nigeria.
The ambassador highlighted ongoing European Union interventions aimed at strengthening Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enhancing digital skills, and improving access to professional networks and business opportunities. He noted that EU programmes place particular emphasis on supporting youths, women, and persons with disabilities, while also helping graduates acquire practical skills before entering the labour market.
Benjamin Kalu Urges Youth to Pursue Their Dreams
In his keynote address, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, PhD, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, encouraged young Nigerians to remain committed to their aspirations and take advantage of opportunities available to them.
He stressed that Nigeria’s future rests in the hands of its youth and urged them to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership as tools for national transformation.
Women Affairs Minister Applauds Initiative
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, commended Activate Success International for its impactful empowerment programmes, which she said have transformed numerous lives over the years.
She further demonstrated her support by making a personal donation to assist young entrepreneurs participating in the programme.
Over ₦100 Million Awarded to Young Entrepreneurs
The event concluded with the presentation of grants and business support packages worth over ₦100 million to outstanding beneficiaries. The support was provided through contributions from organizations and partners including the Rochas Okorocha Foundation, Flutterwave, Nestlé Nigeria, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Crown Properties, Vodi Group, the Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the National Chairman of the APC, among others.
The programme also featured musical performances and entertainment from notable Nigerian artists, including Timi Dakolo, Cobhams Asuquo, and other distinguished performers, adding colour and excitement to the celebration of youth excellence and entrepreneurship.
The 11th edition of YEEP reaffirmed Activate Success International’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship as a pathway to sustainable economic growth and national development.
