In a significant move to empower the youth and pave the way for future economic leaders, Igwe Samuel Asadu, the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu in Nsukka LGA of Enugu, has distributed a total of N63 million among 63 youths, providing each with N1 million to kickstart their entrepreneurial endeavors.
The official presentation of cheques to the beneficiaries took place on Wednesday, where Igwe Samuel Asadu highlighted the essence of this empowering initiative. The chief emphasized the pivotal role of the youth in shaping the community’s future and expressed optimism that within the next decade, the community would witness the emergence of 63 millionaires and even billionaires who would contribute significantly to local development.
“This is the first phase of this empowerment, as more youths in the community will benefit in no distant time by God’s special grace,” stated Igwe Asadu during the cheque presentation. He urged the recipients to utilize the funds judiciously for their intended purposes, emphasizing the ripple effect such success stories could have on the wider community.
Igwe Asadu outlined that the empowerment program aligns with his broader transformation agenda, aiming to equip and prepare the youth for future leadership roles. He stressed the importance of meaningful and positive empowerment to maintain a peaceful and crime-free society.
The ruler expressed satisfaction with the community’s intelligent and well-behaved youth, commending their determination to contribute positively to society. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Chidozie Ogbu-led selection and disbursement committee for meticulously choosing beneficiaries based on viable business proposals.
Chidozie Ogbu assured that the committee would closely monitor the beneficiaries to ensure the funds were used appropriately and not diverted to frivolous activities. “We will monitor them closely to ensure that the aim of this empowerment is achieved,” Ogbu affirmed.
Emeka Ugwoke, the president general of Edem-Ani Town Union, lauded Igwe Asadu for consistently prioritizing the community’s interests. The youth president, Kenechukwu Omeje, also expressed gratitude for Igwe Asadu’s special commitment to empowering the youth, emphasizing the positive impact on the community’s development.
