EDIA Launches ₦100 Million Youth Empowerment Programme in Enugu
The Ezeagu in Diaspora International Association (EDIA) has unveiled a ₦100 million youth empowerment initiative aimed at training 500 young people from Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State.
The programme, launched at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, targets youths between 18 and 30 years and will equip them with skills in vocational trades, agriculture, digital technology, technical crafts, sports, and entrepreneurship.
Chairman of the occasion and Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, praised the resilience of the Ezeagu people but cautioned the beneficiaries against chasing “quick money.” He emphasised that sustainable success stems from skills and hard work.
In his keynote address, Dr. Kingsley Eze, Managing Director of Tenece Professional Services Limited, commended EDIA’s bold step, stressing that ideas and innovation are crucial in the global economy. He urged the youths to channel their energy into creating practical solutions to societal challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the Enugu State Government, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, described the initiative as a strategic step in reversing the japa syndrome and aligning with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision of economic prosperity for the state.
EDIA President, John-Mary Aniagolu, revealed that while 1,280 youths applied, only 500 would benefit in the first phase. He announced that 10 beneficiaries would travel to Brazil for advanced agricultural training. Aniagolu also disclosed that his company, E & C Logistics Ltd. (EASYWAY), has offered 20 automatic job placements to Ezeagu youths, with another member pledging 21 additional slots.
He further highlighted a ₦100 billion partnership signed by an Ezeagu indigene, Chief Nnamdi Silas Ozor, with the Enugu State Government and Sunghai Agro Regional Industry to revive the Sunghai Farm Estate in Heneke, Ezeagu — a project expected to generate massive employment.
Aniagolu reaffirmed EDIA’s mission of driving economic growth through mentorship, micro-financing for SMEs, strengthening community security, and partnering with government on development projects. “We are determined to rebrand, rebuild, and reinstate the integrity and ingenuity of Ndi Ezeagu,” he said, expressing confidence that the programme would produce a new generation of entrepreneurs and wealth creators.
The event attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders, all of whom pledged their support for EDIA’s vision of building a prosperous and empowered Ezeagu.
