The Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF) has issued a passionate appeal for increased efforts in skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development to empower young people and drive economic growth in Anambra State.
This call to action follows the graduation of 43 youths from Anam at the inaugural Industrial Skill Acquisition and Applications Centre (ISAAC), hosted by Onitsha Business School (OBS). The event marked a significant step toward harnessing youth potential for economic transformation in Anambra West Local Government Area and beyond.
Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
In a joint statement by EYAF President Dr. Christopher Anekwe, Secretary JohnPaul Udoba, and Public Relations Officer Olisemeka Obeche, the foundation emphasized the importance of a strong support system to help young entrepreneurs thrive.
The six-month training program equipped participants with hands-on skills in various disciplines, positioning them to establish their own businesses. As part of the initiative, several outstanding graduates received financial grants to kickstart their entrepreneurial journeys:
Six graduates received N500,000 each
One graduate received N300,000
Another was awarded N250,000
Plans are underway to further support all graduates
EYAF expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Kenneth Nzegwu, a respected son of Anambra State, for fully sponsoring the 43 graduates’ training, which would have otherwise cost N480,000 per participant at Onitsha Business School.
The foundation also acknowledged Prof. Olusegun Sogbesan, Director General of OBS, and his team for their commitment to mentorship and success opportunities beyond the classroom.
A Vision for Millionaire Entrepreneurs
EYAF envisions the creation of a new generation of millionaire entrepreneurs who will drive economic prosperity in Anambra State. The foundation stressed the urgency of increasing empowerment support to help these young graduates succeed in the business world.
“As the world faces rapid technological and economic shifts, it is critical to equip our youth with the tools and resources to thrive in a highly competitive landscape,” EYAF stated.
The foundation believes that investing in youth empowerment is key to:
Fostering innovation
Reducing unemployment
Driving sustainable economic growth
A Call for Collaboration
To sustain this initiative, EYAF urged the Anambra government, national and state legislators, non-profits, and the private sector to collaborate in supporting vocational training, mentorship, and funding opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
💬 “By doing so, we can unlock the vast potential of our youth and guide them toward productive careers and business ownership,” the foundation asserted.
As part of its ongoing efforts, EYAF is working to establish partnerships for:
Workshops and training sessions
Entrepreneurial incubators
Job market skill development programs
Building a Future of Economic Prosperity
The foundation called on stakeholders across various sectors to join in this critical movement to uplift young entrepreneurs and secure a prosperous future for Anambra State.
“Together, we can break the cycle of poverty, enhance employability, and nurture a thriving culture of entrepreneurship that will benefit generations to come,” EYAF concluded.
The graduation event also saw the presence of prominent figures, including members of the EYAF Board of Trustees, represented by Secretary Barr. Victor Nwakasi, alongside representatives from the Anambra People’s Assembly, local government, and community organizations—a testament to the collective commitment to youth empowerment in the state.
With continued support and strategic partnerships, EYAF remains steadfast in its mission to create opportunities, transform lives, and build a self-reliant future for young entrepreneurs in Anambra State.