The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has received commendation for launching the Renewed Hope Scale-Up Grant, a youth empowerment and entrepreneurship initiative targeted at young people in Plateau State.

The National Youth Congress (NYC) hailed the gesture, noting it remains a bold step toward tackling unemployment and underemployment through pragmatic and inclusive partnerships.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, NYC President, Comrade Jethro Annum, described the initiative as a “game changer” that would deepen youth inclusion, job creation, and economic participation.

“This forward-thinking initiative perfectly aligns with our vision centred on job creation, access to finance, and enterprise development for young Nigerians,” Annum stated.

He urged other political stakeholders—both elected officials and appointees—to emulate Prof. Yilwatda’s example by initiating similar programs that provide young people with the resources and mentorship they need to thrive.

“The NYC recognises this initiative as a clear demonstration of Prof. Nentawe’s youth-centred leadership and his unwavering commitment to bridging the generational gap in governance and economic empowerment,” he added. “His effort in creating platforms for young innovators to access funding, training, and mentorship is a model worthy of emulation nationwide.”

Annum disclosed that the congress is ready to partner with Prof. Yilwatda and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to expand the program to all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“We believe this will allow more young Nigerians to benefit from the opportunity, thereby strengthening the spirit of enterprise and productivity across the country,” he said.

The Renewed Hope Scale-Up Grant targets adults aged 18 to 45 in Plateau State, offering financial support of ₦1 million, ₦500,000, and ₦250,000, alongside start-up packs, mentorship, and access to markets, networks, and cooperatives.

Reaffirming NYC’s commitment to supporting youth-driven innovation and national growth, Annum praised Prof. Yilwatda’s leadership style.

“We are grateful to the youth-friendly National Chairman, who continues to serve as a bridge between the old and the young, demonstrating that true leadership is about creating opportunities for others to rise,” he concluded.