The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) has signed a ₦1 billion strategic partnership agreement with Nehemiah Foundation International (NFI) to empower 10,000 youths and women across Nigeria over the next three years.

The agreement, formalised at a presidential signing ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, marks the launch of the National Youth Transformation Programme, an initiative designed to advance structured youth empowerment and sustainable development nationwide.

Multi-Sector Empowerment Initiative

Under the partnership, beneficiaries will receive targeted support in key sectors including agribusiness development, information and communication technology (ICT) and digital skills, metal and technical skills training, entrepreneurship development, cooperative enterprise systems, as well as climate resilience and good governance advocacy.

Speaking at the ceremony, NYC President, Engr. Annum Jethro Terhile, described the initiative as a significant milestone in translating youth empowerment policies into practical outcomes.

“This programme prioritises job creation, skills acquisition, and cooperative-based economic participation to guarantee long-term and measurable impact,” he said.

He added that the project is designed with strong governance and accountability frameworks, including joint project monitoring, independent audits, and transparent reporting structures aligned with international best practices.

According to Terhile, the partnership will leverage NFI’s technical expertise, donor engagement, and implementation capacity, while NYC will deploy its nationwide network across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to ensure inclusive participation.

Stakeholders Express Optimism

Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the initiative would boost agricultural productivity, enhance digital workforce readiness, stimulate entrepreneurship, and create sustainable livelihoods for thousands of young Nigerians.

Observers noted that the agreement reflects a renewed commitment by NYC leadership to position Nigerian youths as key drivers of economic growth and national transformation.

The National Youth Transformation Programme is expected to commence in phases, with beneficiary selection and project rollout planned across multiple regions of the country.