The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged Plateau State’s youths to take advantage of multiple economic policies of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration to create a better future for themselves.

Yilwatda spoke during the launching of a youth empowerment programme called “Renewed Hope Scale-Up Grant” at Crespan Hotel in Jos, the state capital.

Addressing the youths, he said: “Mr. President has set a bold vision — to build a $1 trillion Nigerian economy. To achieve this, we must develop the infrastructure that supports such an economy.

“Today, the government is investing heavily in seaports and airports to enhance trade and ease of doing business.

“Road networks, including major highways connecting key economic corridors, railways to improve transportation of goods and people, energy and gas infrastructure to power industries.

“For example, the Sokoto–Badagry superhighway, spanning over 1,000 kilometres, will transform agriculture and trade along its corridor. It will include dams for irrigation, support food production, and connect rural producers to national and international markets.”

Yilwatda added: “Similarly, the coastal road network from Calabar to Lagos will open up economic opportunities along the southern corridor, facilitating the export of agricultural and industrial products.

“Rail infrastructure is also being expanded — from Lagos to Kano, and beyond — to strengthen connectivity across the country.

“For us in Plateau State, there is great news. The Federal Government has approved the upgrade of the Jos Airport to an international cargo airport. This means farmers and producers in Plateau can now export their goods directly.

“This is a major opportunity.

If you are a farmer in Plateau State, this is your moment. Your products are now positioned for export. With improved infrastructure, access to markets will no longer be a major barrier.

“We must change our mindset. The era when many of us aspired only to become civil servants is gone. There are greater opportunities in entrepreneurship.

“This is the reality: a business you own can be more rewarding than a job you depend on. I want to see all of you grow your businesses—to employ others, to become successful, and to build wealth.

“Plateau State is full of opportunities. Every day, billions of naira circulate within the economy. You must position yourselves to take advantage of this.

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“To the beneficiaries, this is just the beginning. We will evaluate your businesses after six months and again after one year. We want to see growth, discipline, and proper management. Keep records. Maintain accounts. Track your income, expenses, and profits.

“If you perform well, we will scale up support: grants will be increased. Additional funding opportunities will be provided. Equipment support will be expanded

“We are also partnering with institutions, such as the Bank of Agriculture (BoA) and the Bank of Industry (BoI) to support your growth. “Furthermore, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) will work with selected businesses to prepare them for export opportunities.”

The APC national chairman also announced the Tinubu administration’s reforms to make life better for the citizenry.

He said: “The Federal Government has also introduced tax reforms to ease the burden on small businesses. Many small enterprises and low-income earners will pay little or no tax, creating more room for growth.

“Finally, I call on all of you to support the vision of building a stronger economy—one that creates opportunities for everyone. “Let us work together to build a prosperous Plateau State and a prosperous Nigeria.”

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who was represented by his deputy, Ngo Josephine Puyo, said: “We particularly commend you, Prof. Yilwatda, for your selflessness. You did not forget your roots. Instead, you have returned home to begin your service to your people.

“By giving back from what God has blessed you with, you have touched many lives. I assure you that these efforts will not be in vain. The impact you have made will continue to speak for you.

“To the beneficiaries, I want to encourage you: make good use of what you have received. This is not an opportunity for extravagance or misuse. It is not for personal indulgence, but for investment and growth. Use these resources wisely to improve your businesses and your livelihoods.

“If you apply these resources properly, the sky will indeed be your limit. You will grow, expand, and create opportunities not just for yourselves but for others as well.

“Let us all work together for the progress of Plateau State. With the continued support of His Excellency, who also has several empowerment initiatives for our people, we are confident that Plateau State will keep moving forward.”

The Director General of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Ezekiel Gomos, said it was an honour to have selected the Jos Business School and himself to be the consultant for Renewed Hope Scale-Up Grant.

He said: “Concerning the distribution of the grants, the cash allocation will include 60 people each receiving one million naira each, 300 people will get N200,000, while 900 people will receive N100,000, and 20 people will receive tricycles.

“Additionally, 33 people will get catering equipment, 172 will receive sewing machines, and 75 people will benefit from welding and transportation tools. Also, 100 people will get auto mechanic tool boxes, while 110 will receive POS machines with N100,000 cash support. 20 ladies will also get make-up kits and 71 people will get GSM repair equipment.”