By Busola Bamidele
The Federal Government has launched a new credit window that could boost early-stage entrepreneurship and strengthen Nigeria’s small business pipeline, following the phased rollout of the YouthCred programme under the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).
Announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Democracy Day 2025 address, the initiative is designed to give young Nigerians easier access to structured consumer credit—starting with NYSC Corps Members before expanding to all employed youths nationwide.
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The programme addresses a long-standing barrier for young aspiring entrepreneurs who often struggle to access capital due to collateral requirements and limited credit history. With YouthCred, applicants aged 18–39 can now secure affordable credit by completing a mandatory credit education module and applying with no collateral required.
The government says the expansion reflects rising demand among young Nigerians seeking capital for personal advancement, skill development, and early-stage business activity.
By widening access to credit, YouthCred is expected to support financial inclusion and help more young people transition their ideas and side hustles into formal micro and small enterprises.
Applications are now open at youthcred.com.
