DAYF Disburses ₦20m to 200 Youths at Business Exhibition in Abeokuta

 

In furtherance of its commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship development, the Dapo Abiodun Youth Forum (DAYF) has empowered 200 youths with cash grants of ₦100,000 each, amounting to a total of ₦20 million, at its End-of-Year Party and Business Exhibition, Season 6.

The programme took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, and attracted youths from across Ogun State who showcased their entrepreneurial skills and innovative business ideas.

Selection of beneficiaries was carried out through an online application process that recorded over 2,000 applicants. Shortlisted candidates were subsequently invited to physically present their business ideas and demonstrate their skill acquisition capacity before the final beneficiaries were chosen.

Addressing the gathering, the Chairman of DAYF, Rasheed Aroboto, commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for his sustained commitment to youth development and empowerment.

According to Aroboto, the cash empowerment programme was designed to support young entrepreneurs and artisans in expanding their businesses and improving their economic conditions. He noted that the ₦20 million disbursed would help beneficiaries strengthen their trades and become self-reliant.

“This empowerment programme is part of our continuous efforts to uplift youths and reduce unemployment. We appreciate Governor Dapo Abiodun for his support and enabling environment that allows youth-focused initiatives like this to thrive,” he said.

On the day of the programme, beneficiaries were formally presented with cheques amid excitement and celebrations.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Dennis Ogunnaike, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Innovation and ICT; Hon. Aderele Michael; Hon. Banwo Babangida, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor; as well as other notable stakeholders.

Aroboto further disclosed that DAYF has consistently empowered youths for five consecutive years, reaching thousands across the state. Beneficiaries over the years have received various empowerment tools such as grinding machines, motorcycles, hairdressing dryers, sewing machines, generators, ovens, stabilizers, and clippers, among others.

He urged the beneficiaries to utilize the grants wisely to grow their businesses and become employers of labour, stressing that the empowerment was intended to create lasting economic impact.

The programme concluded with a business exhibition that highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial potential of Ogun youths, reinforcing DAYF’s role as a key driver of youth empowerment in the state.