The 2025 Young Ministers Retreat has provided a major boost for youth-led micro, small and medium enterprises with the disbursement of ₦24 million in business grants to over 1,000 young Nigerian entrepreneurs. The initiative, delivered in partnership with Premium Trust Bank, is aimed at strengthening small businesses, improving productivity and supporting sustainable livelihoods across the country.
Grant amounts ranged from ₦500,000 to ₦2 million and were awarded through a transparent and structured selection process. Applicants submitted business plans that were reviewed by a panel of experts, after which shortlisted candidates participated in a raffle draw to ensure fairness and accountability in the allocation of funds.
According to Premium Trust Bank, the grants are designed to address one of the most pressing challenges facing youth-led businesses: access to startup and growth capital. The funding will enable beneficiaries to expand operations, invest in equipment, improve cash flow and reach new markets in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Read also,
- NASENI innovation signals new business opportunities
- YMR fuels youth MSMEs nationwide with ₦24m growth grants
- Nigeria positions economy as SME gateway for Europe Africa trade
- Tax reforms committee engages Ombud to protect SMEs
- Cashew sector could unlock $10bn SME opportunity
Beyond financial support, the programme also provided mentorship and business advisory services covering pricing, customer acquisition, financial management and operational planning. Organisers said combining funding with capacity building is key to ensuring long-term business growth and improved survival rates for MSMEs.
Now in its ninth year, the Young Ministers Retreat has evolved into a platform for economic empowerment, supporting youth entrepreneurship and job creation. The 2025 edition attracted hundreds of thousands of participants globally, reinforcing the role of targeted funding and structured support in building Nigeria’s next generation of business leaders.
