The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Activate Success International Foundation (ASIF), Love Idoko-Uloko, has challenged young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and courage as pathways to personal success and national development, declaring that Nigeria needs “a generation prepared to build, not a generation waiting for rescue.”
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) in Abuja, Idoko-Uloko said the country’s greatest challenge is not a shortage of talent but the absence of adequate structures to transform youthful potential into productive enterprise.

Addressing participants under the theme, “Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Courage and Impact,” she described the four concepts as pillars upon which sustainable economies are built.
“Entrepreneurship is the disciplined creation of value and opportunity where none previously existed. Innovation is the commitment to relevance in a rapidly changing world. Courage is the willingness to act decisively in the presence of uncertainty, while impact remains the enduring measure of success,” she said.
The ASIF founder lamented what she described as a widening gap between talent and opportunity, education and employability, as well as aspiration and access, noting that millions of Nigerian youths possess ideas and creativity but lack the support systems necessary to convert them into sustainable livelihoods.

She explained that Activate Success International Foundation was established over a decade ago to address this challenge, driven by the conviction that no young Nigerian should have their future limited by the circumstances of birth.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Idoko-Uloko recounted how the death of her father at a critical stage in her life shaped her outlook and commitment to creating opportunities for others.
“I learnt early that adversity does not have the final authority over a person’s destiny. Sometimes, it refines clarity, strengthens resolve, and redirects purpose,” she said.

According to her, the foundation has, over the years, evolved into a national platform for youth empowerment, reaching millions of young Nigerians through entrepreneurship training, leadership development, and enterprise support initiatives.
She disclosed that more than 90 per cent of businesses supported through the foundation’s interventions remain operational, while 85 per cent have been formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, and over 70 per cent have recorded significant growth and expansion.
Highlighting the achievements of the last edition of YEEP, Idoko-Uloko said more than ₦50 million was disbursed to young entrepreneurs across Nigeria, with 57 beneficiaries receiving grants to support and scale their businesses.

She added that 30 fashion entrepreneurs were equipped with industrial machines donated by Vodi Tailors, helping to boost productivity and competitiveness in the sector.
“These interventions were never intended to be symbolic. They were designed to be catalytic, providing resources, confidence, and momentum for young people transitioning from ideas into viable enterprises,” she said.
The foundation also honoured key partners and supporters whose contributions have sustained the programme over the years.

Among those recognised were the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described as the highest donor of grants during the 2025 YEEP edition; the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for nine years of partnership; Nestlé Nigeria for eight years of support; architect Apeh Iwodi of Lines and Minds; renowned fashion entrepreneur Seyi Vodi; Crown Luxury Properties CEO Crown Amos Gbadawole; and Flutterwave Chief Executive Officer, Gbenga Agboola, who was recognised as the lead sponsor of YEEP 2026.
Idoko-Uloko stressed that the honours were based on measurable impact rather than position or status.
“We do not celebrate position; we recognise impact. These individuals and organisations have consistently created opportunities where barriers once existed for young Nigerians,” she stated.

She urged participants to focus less on seeking money and more on developing ideas, strategies, and solutions.
“Money is a reward for solving problems. Money flows in the direction of solutions. Stop looking for money; look for a plan, an idea, and a strategy,” she advised.
Encouraging young Nigerians not to be discouraged by their backgrounds or present circumstances, she reminded them that success is ultimately determined by vision, discipline, and action.

“As we commence YEEP 2026, my expectation is that this gathering will not only inspire thought but provoke action, ignite transformation, and deepen the commitment of every participant to building something meaningful,” she said.
She noted that YEEP has become more than an annual programme, describing it as a continuing national commitment to equipping, empowering, and positioning young Nigerians to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Key entities mentioned include: Love Idoko-Uloko, Activate Success International Foundation, Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Programme 2026, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, National Youth Service Corps, Nestlé Nigeria, Seyi Vodi, and Gbenga Agboola.