By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

No fewer than 200 youths have been empowered with cash grants totalling ₦20 million by the Dapo Abiodun Youth Forum (DAYF) at its End-of-Year Party and Business Exhibition, Season 6, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Each beneficiary received ₦100,000 at the event, which took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, and attracted youths from across the state, who showcased their entrepreneurial skills and innovative business ideas.

Selection of beneficiaries followed an online application process that recorded over 2,000 applicants. Shortlisted candidates were later invited to physically present their business ideas and demonstrate their acquired skills before the final beneficiaries emerged.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of DAYF, Mr. Rasheed Aroboto, commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his sustained commitment to youth development and empowerment.

Aroboto explained that the cash grant initiative was aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs and artisans to expand their businesses and improve their economic well-being, noting 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 in the state. We appreciate Governor Dapo Abiodun for providing the enabling environment that allows youth-focused initiatives like this to thrive,” he said.

Beneficiaries were formally presented with cheques at the event amid excitement and celebrations.

The DAYF chairman further disclosed that the forum has consistently empowered youths for five consecutive years, impacting thousands across the state.

According to him, beneficiaries over the years have received various empowerment tools, including grinding machines, motorcycles, hairdressing dryers, sewing machines, generators, ovens, stabilisers and clippers, among others.

He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grants to grow their businesses and become employers of labour, stressing that the initiative was designed to create lasting economic impact.

The programme also featured a business exhibition showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial potential of Ogun youths, underscoring DAYF’s role in promoting youth empowerment and entrepreneurship in the state.