Some members of the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream 2 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Anambra State have received N1 million in cash prizes, business start-up support and mentorship opportunities at the close of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.
The beneficiaries were rewarded during the SAED closing ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Anambra State.
The major highlight of the event was a business proposal competition involving representatives from the camp’s 10 platoons, who presented innovative business ideas before a panel of judges.
Chinaza Abolade emerged winner with a proposal for a locally focused small-business visibility initiative and received N500,000.
Judith Inoyi came second with N300,000, while Ogochukwu Obaje, who presented a catfish production proposal, placed third and received N200,000.
Beyond the N1 million prize money, Obaje also received additional agricultural support from Josranus Global Enterprise, Osumenyi, Nnewi South, owned by Mr. Oramu Joseph.
The support package includes a crate of eggs monthly for one year and 300 catfish fingerlings to enable the beneficiary commence the proposed agricultural venture.
Twenty other corps members also received cash gifts from the youth wing of the Anambra State Town Union Council (ASTUC).
Speaking at the event, the President of ASTUC Youth Wing, Mr. Ken Okoli, said the initiative was aimed at rewarding excellence, promoting entrepreneurship and supporting corps members during their national service.
Okoli described NYSC as an important platform for youth development and self-discovery, adding that he would mentor 20 corps members who successfully recited the 12 Core Values of Onye Anambra.
He assured that ASTUC youths across the 179 communities in Anambra State would continue to support the welfare of corps members serving in their respective communities.
Also speaking, the Regional Manager of UBA’s United Capital, Sir Tochukwu Chidebelu, urged the beneficiaries to transform their ideas and acquired skills into sustainable businesses.
He encouraged the corps members to take advantage of opportunities available through the NYSC programme and remain committed to developing their entrepreneurial potential.
Earlier, the Head of SAED, Mr. Ben Obi, explained that the programme was designed to expose corps members to practical skills and entrepreneurship opportunities that could enhance self-reliance and productive engagement after national service.
The NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Pauline Ojisua, commended the corps members for their participation in the training but warned that the few days spent learning skills in camp were only the beginning.
She urged them to continue with post-camp training and practice, stressing that professional competence requires continuous learning, dedication and experience.
The ceremony highlighted the growing emphasis on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, mentorship and youth empowerment as part of efforts to prepare corps members for sustainable livelihoods beyond national service.
